The swimming community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Hannah Nelson, a talented athlete, beloved teammate, and member of the U.S. Para Swimming World Championship Team, who passed away at the age of 23 following a catastrophic brain bleed.
Hannah, who swam for Ave Maria University, was remembered not only for her remarkable athletic accomplishments, but also for the joy, faith, and encouragement she brought to everyone around her. The university informed students over the weekend that Hannah had suffered a catastrophic brain bleed and had fallen into a coma. Despite the efforts of doctors, she was not expected to recover.
A native of South Dakota, Hannah’s life was marked by incredible resilience and determination from an early age. She began swimming at just 8 years old and quickly discovered a passion for the sport. At the age of 11, Hannah was diagnosed with bone cancer, a life-changing challenge that resulted in the partial amputation of her left leg below the knee. Yet even in the face of unimaginable hardship, she never allowed her circumstances to define her.
Instead, Hannah transformed adversity into inspiration. After meeting Paralympic legend Jessica Long at a swimming clinic, she was encouraged to attend her first para-swimming meet. That encounter proved to be a turning point in her life and athletic career.
Hannah went on to become one of the nation’s most accomplished para swimmers. In 2023, she earned a place on her first U.S. National Team and competed at the World Para Swimming Championships. There, she placed seventh in the S10 400-meter freestyle final, standing as the lone American in the event. Although freestyle was her strongest stroke, Hannah also achieved distinction by holding an American para-swimming record in breaststroke.
Before transferring to Ave Maria, Hannah competed collegiately for Augustana University. At Ave Maria, she became far more than a swimmer. She was a record holder, a leader, and a source of strength for her teammates. During the 2026 Sun Conference Championships, she placed 13th in the 1650 freestyle, continuing to compete with the same determination and heart that defined her entire life.
Head coach Giordan Harris described Hannah as a “true leader” whose impact reached far beyond the pool. He said she helped shape the culture of the team in the weight room, at practice, and through her example of faith and perseverance.
Teammates remembered Hannah for her bright spirit and contagious positivity. Maeve O’Brien said Hannah could brighten any practice with her smile and colorful orange swimsuits. Clare Tamisiea described her as “an encouraging sister,” while teammate Eli Pelzer called her a calming presence who was always there to talk or pray.
Those who knew Hannah say her greatest gift was the way she loved others. She showed kindness without condition and inspired everyone around her to be stronger, more faithful, and more compassionate. Though her life was far too short, Hannah Nelson leaves behind a lasting legacy of courage, faith, and hope that will never be forgotten.