UW-L student dies in dorm from medical complications

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse freshman Ethan Kappel passed away on Dec. 16 from complications due to type 1 diabetes, Chancellor Joe Gow said in a letter to campus.

Kappel, who was also known as Jesse, was from Victoria, Minn., and was majoring in Communication Studies.

In a Facebook post made by Kappel’s mother, it is believed Kappel died from ketoacidosis, after having a stomach bug earlier in the week.

Ketoacidosis is a deadly condition that occurs when the body doesn’t have enough insulin to allow blood sugar into cells.

In Gow’s letter, he encouraged students to use campus resources to help process their grief and to make a donation to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in honor of Kappel.

“During this time of great loss, we are reminded of the importance of community and how it also provides a supportive environment where we can grieve and heal together,” Gow said. “While we do, please join me in keeping Jesse’s loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

A letter was also sent out to students on Dec. 16 stating that an “emergency situation” had occurred earlier that day at Laux Hall.

Students were asked to show ” kindness and peace” when discussing the situation and were asked not to speculate until further information was announced.