Meaghan Lee Querry Blair, a 29-year-old mother of two, died Monday after suffering a heat stroke while serving as a “ma” on an LDS pioneer trek in Oklahoma.
On a statement from social media, Blair’s father said:
It is with heavy heart and sorrow that we share the passing of Meaghan Lee Blair. Meg was the wife of her beloved husband Mike Blair, mother to Evelyn and Asher and mine and Maureen’s oldest daughter. We appreciate all of the expressions of sympathy and prayers. She lived an epic life of cheerful devotion to Mike and the kids. She was generous to a fault in life as she has been in death. While we are at this time unclear as to the next steps we will communicate as we understand better. Thank you for your support and kindness over these last few hours.
Deborah Neria, a spokeswoman from the Rogers Arkansas Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints of which Blair was a member, also released this statement:
“We express our love and deepest sympathies to the family of Meaghan Blair. This is a heartbreaking loss for the family and all who knew her.”
According to news reports, multiple precautions were taken by trek leaders to ensure safety on the trek. Weather forecasts were monitored and leaders even changed multiple aspects of the seven mile hike so it started earlier, included swimming stops, and had more shady places to rest. The trek followed all procedures detailed in the manual of trek guidelines, including the mandated to have 10 gallons of water available on each handcart.
In spite of the precautions, Blair began experiencing heat stroke symptoms near the end of the hike and was immediately cared for by the doctor and two nurses on the hike. She was transported by helicopter to a hospital, where she died.
Members from around the area are rallying to support the Blair family.
“Local church members have been in close contact with the family to offer their love and support,” Neria said. “We pray that they will be blessed with God’s peace and understanding as they deal with this terrible loss.”
