Father Pays Tribute to East Valley Teen’s Legacy After Sudden Lung Blood Clots Tragedy

PHOENIX — The tragic death of 16-year-old Sydelia Orr, a bright student athlete from Arizona College Prep, has left a profound impact on the East Valley community. One year ago, Sydelia passed away unexpectedly after returning from a wrestling tournament in Las Vegas.

A medical examiner’s report confirmed that she died from blood clots in her lungs, a rare but known side effect of birth control, according to her family.

Edmund Orr, her father, continues to grapple with the loss while honoring his daughter’s memory. “I feel the same as I did a week after,” he shared, reflecting the enduring heartache. He recalled Sydelia as a wise young woman who questioned basic norms, such as the necessity of eating meat, leading her to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle at a young age.

Sydelia’s daily routine was far from ordinary. Rising before dawn, she incorporated exercise and academics into her busy schedule. Her father describes her as relentless in pursuing interests like rock climbing and competitive cycling, in addition to being an accomplished wrestler.

She was also academically ambitious, earning college credits in biology and chemistry while being accepted into the Science National Honor Society posthumously. Dreams of a graduate degree in chemistry reflected her commitment to excellence.

“She was generous of spirit,” Edmund said, emphasizing how her character defined her life. On November 10, 2023, after enduring respiratory struggles post-tournament, Sydelia was taken to the doctor but tragically passed before further care could be administered.

In response to this devastating event, her family has filed a civil lawsuit for medical malpractice and wrongful death. Since her passing, friends and classmates have held memorials, coining the phrase “Live Like Syd” as a testament to her character.

To further honor his daughter’s legacy, Edmund established the Sydelia Orr Memorial Scholarship Fund to promote women in science and STEM fields. An event to raise funds for this initiative, featuring a cornhole tournament at ACP High School, is set for Saturday. The foundation will provide ten $1,600 “Live Like Syd” scholarships for Chandler students.

“I think she would appreciate the fun and engagement,” Edmund stated, expressing hope that sharing Sydelia’s story might inspire others. “Not enough people will know her directly, but we can embody the qualities she represented.”