Highlight:
- Former Texas A&M swimmer and aspiring pilot, Jessica Sloan, passed away at age 28 after a three-year battle with grade 3 anaplastic astrocytoma, a malignant brain tumor.
- Despite undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, and continued treatments, Sloan faced additional health challenges, including a second tumor in her cerebellum.
- A memorial service is planned for Monday, October 7th, 2024, at Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport, honoring her life and legacy.
Jessica Sloan, a former Texas A&M swimmer and aspiring pilot, passed away at the age of 28 after a courageous three-year battle with cancer. Her mother announced her passing on social media, sharing the heartbreaking news that Jessica died on Monday, September 23rd, at 12:38 a.m. “I was so unprepared for her passing because I truly thought the Lord would heal her here on earth. Cary, Jacob, Cristian, and I are all devastated. We find comfort in knowing she is so happy and healthy now in Heaven,” her mother wrote.
Who Was Jessica Sloan?
Jessica was diagnosed with a grade 3 anaplastic astrocytoma, a malignant brain tumor in her right temporal lobe, in 2021. At the time, she was working as the lead flight instructor at a flight school in Texas and was just hours away from qualifying to apply as an airline pilot. Despite her illness, Jessica remained dedicated to her work in aviation.
On September 17th, Jessica was rushed to the hospital, and a week later, she passed away. Her mother had been sharing updates about Jessica’s condition on social media throughout her battle, and news of her death sparked an outpouring of tributes from friends and loved ones.
One tribute read: “My greatest years in the pool were when she was right beside me. The greatest lane buddy I ever had. She was fiercely strong and the biggest hype woman. I love you guys and am sending all my hugs and prayers.”
Another friend wrote: “What a privilege it was to grow up next to Jessica. From that first time she invited me over to swim in the Sloan’s pool—she was who I wanted to be like. She is and will always be the strongest and toughest person I know. I am so incredibly sorry for your loss.”
Jessica underwent brain surgery in March 2021, followed by 12 months of oral chemotherapy. Despite a setback in December 2022, when a low-grade tumor was found in her cerebellum, Jessica continued to fight, even as she struggled with double vision and balance issues after being released from MD Anderson on August 30, 2024.
Celebration of Life For Jessica Sloan
A Celebration of Life/Memorial Service is scheduled for Monday, October 7th, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Mike Barksdale’s Hangar, located at Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport.