News Summary

The South Caldwell community is reeling after the tragic death of 15-year-old Makala Rangel, who suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm during a soccer game. After being airlifted for medical care, she sadly passed away just days later, leaving her family, friends, and school community in mourning. A prayer vigil and fundraising efforts have brought the community together to support the family during this difficult time. Schools are providing grief support and holding events in her memory, highlighting the impact of her bright spirit.

Makala Rangel, A Young Star, Tragically Passes Away

In a heart-wrenching turn of events for the community, South Caldwell has lost a bright young talent too soon. Makala Rangel, a spirited 15-year-old freshman at South Caldwell High School, tragically passed away after a sudden seizure during a soccer game last Friday, March 7.

A Night of Play Turns to Heartbreak

Makala was enjoying a typical evening filled with the excitement of youth sports at the Hudson Recreation Center when the unimaginable happened. She suffered a seizure during the game, sparking immediate concern among her teammates and coaches. The intensity of the situation escalated quickly as EMS rushed her to the hospital.

Medical Discovery Shocks Family and Friends

Upon arriving at the hospital, doctors made a grim discovery. The young athlete had a ruptured brain aneurysm, a rare condition affecting approximately 1 in 1,000,000 people. After receiving initial care, she was airlifted to Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem for further medical interventions. Despite the heroic efforts of the medical team, Makala passed away on Sunday evening, March 9, at 11:59 PM, leaving friends and family in shock.

A Community in Mourning

The outpouring of love and support for Rangel’s family has been extraordinary. Friends, teammates, and community members came together for a heartfelt prayer vigil on Sunday night to honor her memory and share their grief. South Caldwell High School took to social media to request prayers for Rangel’s family during this unimaginably tough time, and condolences have poured in from every corner of the community.

A Legacy of Love and Support

The impact of Makala’s bright spirit was profound. Caldwell County Schools recognized her influence among her peers, coaches, and the broader community, noting how she touched so many lives during her time at school. Her smile and energy will surely be missed.

Community Rallies to Assist the Family

In an effort to alleviate some of the financial burden associated with her unexpected passing, a GoFundMe account has been set up by Rangel’s sister-in-law, Diana Luna. The community has rallied behind the family, contributing over $12,500 of the $16,000 goal, showcasing the strength and compassion of this tight-knit city.

Support for Students and Teammates

Understanding the emotional toll of this tragedy, the Caldwell County Schools Crisis Response Team has stepped in. They will be available at South Caldwell High School for several days, providing grief support to students, staff, and anyone in the community who needs assistance coping with this profound loss.

Giving Back in Memory of Makala

In a show of solidarity, the staff at West Caldwell High School announced that all proceeds from their upcoming soccer game against Hibriten would go directly to the Rangel family to help with funeral costs. This selfless gesture exemplifies the love and unity present in the community, rallying together in times of need.

A Call for Togetherness

As South Caldwell navigates this difficult journey, the memory of Makala Rangel will shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her. Her legacy is not just one of a talented young athlete but of a loving community that comes together in times of sorrow. Let’s keep Makala’s family in our thoughts and prayers, standing together as we honor her remarkable spirit.

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