NEED TO KNOW

• A cherished student from Ohio State passed away due to a rare blood disorder linked to the Epstein-Barr Virus.

• Cailin Joyce died on December 4 after her health took a dramatic turn following a prolonged hospital stay.

• While the Epstein-Barr virus usually remains asymptomatic, it can, though infrequently, lead to severe health issues.

A 19-year-old college student tragically lost her life due to a rare blood disorder brought on by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).

Cailin, who was a student at Ohio State, began feeling unwell at the start of the academic year. A friend expressed her heartache on a GoFundMe page created to assist Cailin’s family, especially her mother, Terese, who had to take leave from work to be by her daughter’s side in the hospital.

The fundraiser detailed that Joyce faced a rare blood condition, which weakened her immune system and led to severe organ inflammation, causing significant fluid retention in her body. Cailin, once active and part of the Ohio State Club Dance Team, found herself bedridden due to her illness.

“Cailin has been confined to a small hospital room for many weeks now as doctors sought to understand her rare condition. This journey involved numerous blood tests, transfusions, and even bone marrow examinations, among other treatments,” the GoFundMe stated.

Simple activities many take for granted became impossible for her. She struggled with even basic tasks like hugging others, stepping outside, or enjoying a hot shower. Fatigue set in quickly, making short walks challenging. Living in dorms, eating in dining halls, attending OSU football games, participating in classes, and even dancing became out of reach for her.

Typically, the Epstein-Barr virus won’t show symptoms, as noted by the Cleveland Clinic. If symptoms do arise, they often manifest as mononucleosis, which leads to fever and fatigue in young adults and children. Although the specific blood disorder Joyce experienced isn’t mentioned, EBV can trigger some rare and severe conditions, including chronic active Epstein–Barr virus and hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis, known for its hyperinflammatory response.

On December 4, the fundraiser reported that “Cailin’s health drastically declined in the last 24 hours, and despite exceptional care and countless prayers for her recovery, she passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.”

Cailin’s teammates from the Ohio State Club Dance Team shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, remembering her for her kindness, determination, humor, and undeniable passion for dance. “She lit up the room and inspired everyone around her with her zest for life.”

The obituary reflected on her legacy, stating, “She is now our guardian angel, dancing in heaven and her love will remain eternal.”