Senior at North Little Rock High School, age 18, who was reported as being in “healthy condition” by a family member, passed away unexpectedly Sunday night.
Victoria Moody, an 18-year-old cheerleader from North Little Rock High School, died unexpectedly, leaving her family and community in shock. Her sister, Brooke McCarty, described her as being in perfect health before her death on Sunday evening, and the cause of death was determined to be a pulmonary embolism. When one or more blood clots become lodged in a lung artery, the body is unable to receive oxygen. The embolism appeared to have progressed too far to be treated and taken so abruptly.
Brian Moody, Victoria’s father, had taken her to the hospital after she complained of feeling ill. McCarty stated that she has no idea why it happened or why it had to happen and that she wishes her sister was still alive. The family is now left to mourn their loss and search for answers as to why a seemingly healthy and vibrant young woman was taken so suddenly.
According to the Mayo Clinic, pulmonary embolisms can happen to anyone at any time, but certain risk factors can increase their likelihood, such as heart disease, certain cancers, and severe coronavirus outbreaks. People who have severe COVID-19 symptoms are at an increased risk of developing a pulmonary embolism. However, it’s unclear if Victoria had prior exposure to COVID-19 or if she had been vaccinated against the virus.
Victoria had been accepted into the honors program and received scholarships at both Mississippi State and the University of Arkansas, according to her sister. She was described as being the kindest person that McCarty had ever met and had given her support for 18 years. The loss of Victoria is a reminder that life can be unpredictable and fragile. It’s important to cherish every moment we have with our loved ones and take care of ourselves both physically and mentally.
The community has rallied around the family to offer their support and condolences during this difficult time. A candlelight vigil was held on Monday evening, followed by a balloon release the next day. Brian Moody expressed his appreciation for the community’s support and wished that local shops selling mementos of his daughter would contribute their proceeds to “developing more research towards pulmonary embolisms.”
Victoria’s obituary states that she was “lovingly welcomed into the arms of our Savior” on Sunday, October 23, 2022. While her family and friends are heartbroken, they take solace in the knowledge that they will see her again at some point. As Rev. 21:4 says, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.”
The loss of Victoria serves as a reminder to cherish the time we have with our loved ones and to prioritize our health. The community’s support during this difficult time highlights the importance of coming together in times of tragedy to offer comfort and aid to those who need it most.