WOLFVILLE, N.S. – A memorial service was held Sunday afternoon at Acadia University for Sarah Hastings, one week after the first-year student passed away from a case of meningitis.
The Nova Scotia flag flew at half-mast at Acadia in memory of Hastings. She became sick last weekend and died Feb. 1. It was a tremendous shock to all fellow students, including Andrew Haskett, who lives in Chipman Hall — the same residence where Hastings had lived.
“She was a good friend of mine,” said Haskett. “She was a beautiful soul. She was full of energy. She loved this place more than life itself. She brought every ounce of energy she had to this place.”
Students filled Manning Chapel on Acadia’s campus to share stories of her.
“It’s a celebration of her life,” said Haskett. “There’s no remorse or sadness.”
Hastings had turned 18 before she passed away. She played ringette and field hockey at Acadia.
Haskett says it’s been a tough week at Acadia.
“We all went through the grieving process but now it’s support. Everyone is supporting each other a tremendous amount and it’s beautiful.”
Hastings’ death has affected more than the students in the small university town of Wolfville.
“I’m so deeply saddened for the university community,” said mayor Jeff Cantwell last Monday. “My heart goes out to the family and friends of this young student. It’s a tragic loss.”
Funeral arrangements are being made in Hastings’ hometown of Cambridge, Ont.
Comments