Bodybuilder Jodi Vance died in Columbus, Ohio last Thursday at the age of 20 after suffering a fatal heart attack while attending the Arnold Sports Festival.
“Her heart stopped due to complications of severe dehydration. Despite all efforts by the hospital, they were unable to revive her,” Vance’s family wrote in a social media post.
“She was a beautiful person inside and out, and she will be missed every single day. This was sudden and unexpected. Please give her family time to process this loss in peace. If anyone takes anything from this, please put your health first.”
Vance was not competing at the Columbus games, but in attendance to help coach her pupils, according to TMZ.
She reportedly began to feel sick after attending the competition and was eventually transported to a local hospital, where she was later declared dead.
Her coach, Justin Mihaly, alleged in an Instagram video that Vance was using potentially harmful supplements without his knowledge despite not having any upcoming competitions.
“Jodi made a serious error,” Mihaly said. “Jodi used two extremely hazardous substances to improve her physique — I assume just for the Arnold Expo — without my knowledge, my approval, without family’s knowledge, their approval … There is no reason that she should have been dehydrating.”
Vance, a Texas native, placed third in the Women’s Physique division of the 2024 NPC Battle of Texas.
She regularly posted pictures of her improving physique, motivational thoughts and quotes to her Instagram account.
“A champion isn’t measured by wins, but by the courage to rise every time they fall,” Vance posted last week.
“It’s not about how many times life knocks you down – it’s about standing up, pushing forward, and refusing to surrender. True greatness is forged in resilience, not just victory. #iameminent.”
Mihaly added that everyone is sad and grieving over the death of his star pupil.
“You are welcome to direct your blame towards me if that’s how you believe we can best honor Jodi,” Mihaly said.
