Texas teen dies suddenly of a heart attack at 15
Kaitlynn Saunders’ 16th birthday would have been Tuesday, but instead, the family is planning her funeral.
BAYTOWN, Texas — A Baytown family is mourning the loss of their daughter who died suddenly of a heart attack at age 15.
Kaitlynn Saunders’ 16th birthday would have been Tuesday, but instead, the family is planning her funeral.
“She’s wonderful. Had a big heart and cared a lot for people,” is how her mother, Nancy Saunders, described her.
On Thursday, Kaitlynn’s heart gave out. Nancy and her son were home when Kaitlynn collapsed on May 22. They called 911, and paramedics rushed her to the hospital.
Her father, Nicholas Saunders, received the call while at work.
“I was freaking out, didn’t think it was real,” Nicholas said.
Doctors informed the family that Kaitlynn had suffered a heart attack. According to the family, there were no warning signs, and Kaitlynn had no known underlying conditions.
“Did doctors tell you any kind of explanation?” KHOU 11 Reporter Anayeli Ruiz asked.
“All they said was that it happens within teenagers, not as often. One in a million. One in a thousand, it could happen, and that day it was just going to happen to her,” Nancy said.
Nicholas still struggles to comprehend the loss.
“Should have taken me instead of her,” he said. “Hardest thing in my life. Not from a heart attack at 15 years old.”
Kaitlynn’s younger brother, Blake Saunders, wants the world to know how special she was.
“She was a very great sister to me,” Blake said.
Photos now cover the family’s dining table, capturing memories of birthdays, milestones, and her most important day — her adoption by her father.
As the family grapples with how to move forward, Blake reflects on what he will miss the most.
“Her voice and good personality,” he said.
The girl they called their princess is gone, but her smile, laugh, and love will live on in their hearts.
“Hold your kids tight, always tell them you love them. Life takes them away for no reason. It’s not fair, but that’s life,” Nancy said.
The family has set up a GoFundMe account to help pay for funeral expenses and the hospital bill.
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