Sienna Stewart, an inspiring 18-year-old graduate from Hiram High School, passed away just weeks after a momentous graduation ceremony on May 23rd. Despite battling severe cardiomyopathy and a recent diagnosis of heart failure, Sienna demonstrated extraordinary strength and determination during her final moments on stage.
A Courageous Graduation
On the day of her graduation, Sienna faced an unexpected challenge. As she walked across the stage to receive her diploma, she collapsed and lost consciousness. Thankfully, paramedics were on the scene quickly, ready to assist. When she regained consciousness, her first instinct was to complete her walk. Tearfully, she insisted on finishing what she had started, a moment her family will forever cherish.
Sienna’s mother, Saevon Chum, reflected on that day, recalling how her daughter had previously experienced episodes of weakness and collapse. Tragically, her graduation day marked the first time Sienna lost consciousness. As the high school principal requested patience from the audience, Sienna’s resilience shone through.
A Mother’s Pride
“When I got there, the ambulance was already there,” Saevon recounted in an interview with Fox5Atlanta. “She had collapsed. She had had another episode. But this was the first time she collapsed unconscious.” Despite the scare, Sienna was resolute in her desire to graduate. She pleaded with her mother, emphasizing how much it meant to her after already missing her senior prom due to hospital stays.
As the last student to receive her diploma, Sienna was met with a standing ovation from her classmates and the audience, a testament to her fighting spirit and determination. “All she could tell me is, ‘I just want to graduate, I want to walk.’ That’s all she wanted,” Saevon shared.
A Tragic Loss
Tragically, just a few weeks after her graduation triumph, Sienna passed away. In a heartfelt expression of pride and sorrow, Saevon reflected, “As a mom, you feel so proud because she just fought through something that hurts her. You have to be proud. Till the end, I was proud.”
Sienna had big plans for her future, aspiring to attend college and pursue a career in sonogram technology in the fall. Her dreams reflected her determination to overcome the challenges she faced and contribute to the world.
Honoring Sienna’s Spirit
Let us remember Sienna Stewart not just for her tragic passing but for her indomitable spirit and the incredible strength she displayed throughout her life. Despite her health challenges, Sienna’s resilience and courage serve as an inspiration to all. May she rest in peace, and may her memory continue to inspire those who knew and loved her.
