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, a devastating turn in a situation that began with a sudden medical emergency at Kinnick Stadium.
Derek Phillips, a third-year student and Iowa native, suffered cardiac arrest just before halftime. He was rushed to the University of Iowa Hospital, where medical staff worked to help him, but the injury to his brain was ultimately too severe.
“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 heat was a major factor on Saturday, with temperatures in the mid-90s at Kinnick Stadium. Because of that, the marching band’s halftime performance was canceled.
The University of Iowa released a statement expressing condolences to Phillips’ family and outlining support resources now in place for the band community.
“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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