A 14-year-old freshman from Geneva Community High School in Geneva, Illinois, died on Sunday, December 17, 2023, following a stroke attack during a swim practice at West Chicago High School on December 8, according to the school’s principal.
James Oliver’s collapse during swim practice was the result of an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) stroke accompanied by a brain hemorrhage.
An AVM is a rare congenital condition characterized by tangled blood vessels in the brain, leading to direct connections between arteries and veins.
According to Dr. Matthew Potts, a neurosurgeon at Northwestern Medicine, AVMs are often diagnosed either incidentally or after bleeding occurs, particularly in children, teenagers, and young adults.
The news of Oliver’s death was communicated to the school community via email. A family friend disclosed that Oliver was born with this condition, which often goes undiagnosed until a rupture occurs.
Swim coach Jennifer Heyer-Olson, who had a close relationship with James and his family, shared her fond memories of the teen. She described him as a source of immense joy and reflected on the close bond he shared with his brother Sean, also a member of the swim team.
The brothers were known for their brotherly love, silliness, and shared interest in trading cards, making a significant impact on those around them.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family meet the funeral expenses.
Oliver was known for his intelligence, great personality, and active involvement in his church’s youth group. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, both at school and in the wider community.