A member of the Iowa Hawkeye Marching Band has been taken off life support after collapsing during Saturday’s Week 1 game against Northern Illinois.
Derek Phillips suffered cardiac arrest just before halftime, according to the report. Phillips was a third-year student and an Iowa native.
He was taken to the University of Iowa Hospital, where medical staff made every effort to help him. His family later said the damage was too severe to overcome. “Despite the extraordinary efforts of the ICU team at the University of Iowa Hospital, the damage to his brain was too severe, and we have made the heartbreaking decision to remove life support,” his family posted via Instagram.
The collapse came during a sweltering day at Kinnick Stadium, where temperatures reached the mid-90s. Because of the heat, the marching band’s halftime performance was canceled.
The University of Iowa released a statement expressing condolences to Phillips’ family and outlining support for students and band members. “The entire Hawkeye Marching Band family is thinking of Derek Phillips and his loved ones.
We are grateful to his parents for providing regular updates to the students who love Derek. This is heartbreaking for everyone who cares for him.
The university is in close contact and is offering support. Both the HMB and School of Music have counselors on-site for students this week.
HMB director Eric Bush has shared resources with the band community and is encouraging anyone who needs support to seek assistance,” said the University of Iowa.
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