However, in April 2024, her health began to decline.
“She was diagnosed with heart failure. Her heart transplant heart is getting sick, is getting weak, is slowing down,” Saevon said, explaining the reasons behind her daughter’s collapse.
Despite these challenges, Sienna managed to walk across the stage unaided, receiving her diploma to the applause and admiration of those present.
“It was a scary moment at graduation, but she was a tough cookie ever since she was little. She was just so tough.
She was just strength and resilience, she was just so strong,” Saevon reflected.
Sadly, just two weeks after this triumph, Sienna collapsed again, much to the shock and heartbreak of her loved ones.
Her mother described the heart-wrenching moment, saying, “You’re just holding your daughter, your child, and you have to [make] that 911 call not knowing if your daughter’s going to wake up or not.”
Despite initial signs of recovery, Sienna passed away on June 12. Saevon shared her grief and pride in her daughter’s strength:
“They asked if I’d known that she’d had a sick heart for a while. I say ‘yes,’ but you know, you’re never going to be ready to lose your child.
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.”
In the aftermath of this tragedy, the community has rallied to support the Chum-Stewart family.
A GoFundMe campaign titled “Remembering SiSi: Support for the Chum-Stewart Family” has been organized to help cover the funeral expenses and support the family.
The campaign, initiated by Essence Chum-Stewart, has exceeded its goal, raising $10,807. The fundraiser paints a vivid picture of Sienna’s vibrant personality:
“She was a bright light with a bubbly personality that could lift anyone’s spirits. Her kindness and warmth touched everyone who knew her and her story would inspire those who didn’t.”
/ source: amomama
