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Second Santa Monica High School Student Dies Of Unknown Medical Condition In 3 Months
Photo via Santa Monica High School/Facebook
A second Santa Monica High School student has died from unknown causes since the beginning of October. The death of Kelly Cano, 18, was announced by the Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District on Sunday.
"We learned this morning of the passing of Samohi student, senior Kelly Cano," Gail Pinsker, a spokeswoman for the SMMUSD, wrote in a statement, notes the Santa Monica Observer. "According to her mother, Sandra Cano, an SMMUSD school nurse, doctors have stated that she passed away of an unknown medical condition, not thought to be related to norovirus. ...We are saddened by this devastating news and our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this difficult time."
Earlier this month, Santa Monica's John Adams Middle School was closed due to an outbreak of an unknown disease believed to be norovirus brought back by students who recently visited Yosemite National Park.
In late October, Vanai Jelks, a sophomore at Santa Monica High School, died from an unknown illness following her return from a cheerleading tournament. The Santa Monica Observer adds that the Los Angeles County Coroner has not yet determined her cause of death.
"Counseling is available to students in the library tomorrow [Feb.14], and as needed this week," a statement from the SMMUSD emailed to LAist notes. "We work closely with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and take their guidance on all public health issues."
"Rip Kelly Cano," tweeted Shirley, a friend of Cano's, on Saturday. "I've known you since elementary and it's hard to see such an amazing girl leave us. You'll be in my prayers."
"The most genuine and loved person," tweeted Madison, another friend, also on Saturday. "Kelly Cano, you're beautiful and the brightest gem of all. We love you KFC."
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