The Ava Maria University community is mourning the loss of one of its own.
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Hannah Nelson, a swimmer and member of the U.S. Para Swimming World Championship team, has died at 23 after suffering a catastrophic brain bleed.
As SwimSwam reported, the university shared the news with students over the weekend, offering support and counseling as the campus processes the loss. U.S. Paralympics Swimming also confirmed the passing.
The loss of Hannah Nelson is felt across our community. Hannah proudly represented @TeamUSA at the 2023 World Para Swimming Championships and was a valued member of the U.S. Paralympics Swimming team. Our thoughts are with her family and all who knew her. pic.twitter.com/HvyTEAt7Rt
— U.S. Paralympics Swimming (@USParaSwimming) April 7, 2026
Nelson's story reached far beyond the pool. She began swimming at age eight. At 11, she was diagnosed with bone cancer, which led to the partial amputation of her left leg. She didn't step away from the sport. She leaned into it.
That path eventually took her to the national stage.
Nelson made her first U.S. National Team in 2023 and competed at the Para Swimming World Championships, finishing seventh in the 400 freestyle. She was the only American in that final.
At Ava Maria, she made an impact just as strong.
A transfer from Augustana University, Nelson became a leader in the program, both in competition and in the locker room. Coaches and teammates consistently pointed to her presence. Positive. Steady. Uplifting.
"She was a true leader... and her story impacted a lot of people well beyond our campus," head coach Giordan Harris said.
That theme comes up again and again.
Nelson was known for her resilience, her faith, and the way she showed up for others. Teammates described her as someone who brought energy to every practice and support to everyone around her.
Her career included records, national recognition, and moments on the world stage.
