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Who was Kennah Orr Gervais?
Kennah Orr Gervais was a former softball player at Florida International University (FIU), who passed away on April 11, 2023, at the age of 30 after battling cervical cancer. She was a daughter, mother, sister, wife, and an amazing friend to many people. She graduated from Chain of Lakes Collegiate High School Class of 2010, continued her education at FIU with an Undergraduate Degree in Criminology & Public Administration and also graduated with her Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice Management from Webber International University. She enjoyed softball (playing, coaching & watching her daughter play), going to the beach, boating and spending time with her family & friends.
How did Kennah Orr Gervais die?
Kennah Orr Gervais died at home surrounded by her family. The cause of death was cervical cancer, which she was diagnosed with in April 2020 at the young age of 27. She underwent multiple surgeries, multiple rounds of chemo and radiation, but this time around, an invasive, life-changing surgery was her only option to move forward cancer free. Unfortunately, the surgery that Kennah had to partake in was a very rare surgery. Due to this, Kennah had to travel to NYC for surgery and recover for an unknown amount of time.
How did the sports world react to Kennah Orr Gervais’ death?
Kennah Orr Gervais’ death was met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from the sports world, especially the softball community. She was remembered as a fighter, a competitor, and a passionate coach and mentor. Her former teammates, coaches, opponents, and fans shared their memories and condolences on social media, using hashtags like #KennahStrong and #FightLikeKennah. Some of the notable messages were:
- “Kennah was one of the toughest players I ever coached. She never gave up, never backed down, and always gave her best. She was a leader on and off the field, and a role model for many young girls. I’m heartbroken by her loss, but I know she’s in a better place. Rest in peace, Kennah. You will always be in our hearts.” – Gator Rebhan, FIU softball head coach
- “I’m so sorry to hear about Kennah’s passing. She was a fierce competitor and a great person. I had the privilege of playing against her in college and coaching with her at Webber. She always had a smile on her face and a positive attitude. She touched so many lives and inspired so many people. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. Fly high, Kennah. You fought the good fight.” – Jessica Mohl, Webber softball head coach
- “Kennah was more than a teammate, she was a sister. We shared so many memories on the field and off the field. She was always there for me, always supportive, always funny. She was the best mom to Kylar and the best wife to Sam. She was the strongest person I know, and I’m so proud of her for fighting cancer twice. I miss her so much, but I know she’s watching over us. I love you, Kennah. You will never be forgotten.” – Nicole Cochran, FIU softball alum and Kennah’s best friend
How can we honor Kennah Orr Gervais’ legacy?
Kennah Orr Gervais’ legacy lives on through her family, friends, and the softball community. She was a warrior who faced cancer with courage and grace. She was a softball star who played with passion and skill. She was a loving mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend who brought joy and happiness to everyone around her. She was an inspiration to many people who are fighting their own battles, whether it’s cancer or something else. She taught us to never give up, never lose hope, and always fight like Kennah.
One way we can honor her legacy is by supporting her family and helping them with the expenses they faced during her treatment and recovery. A GoFundMe page was created by Nicole Cochran on behalf of Shellenna Orr, Kennah’s mother, to raise funds for Kennah’s medical bills, travel costs, living expenses, and day-to-day living expenses at home. Any amount donated will be a blessing to Kennah’s family. If you are unable to donate, you can share her story and the link to the fundraiser so we can get the word out to as many people as possible.
Another way we can honor her legacy is by raising awareness and prevention of cervical cancer, which is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, cervical cancer is a preventable and curable disease if detected early and treated adequately. Some of the ways to prevent and detect cervical cancer are:
- Getting regular screening tests, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, to find abnormal cells that can be treated before they turn into cancer
- Getting vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the main cause of cervical cancer
- Practicing safe sex and limiting the number of sexual partners to reduce the risk of HPV infection
- Quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke, which can increase the risk of cervical cancer
- Eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight, which can boost the immune system and lower the risk of cancer
Kennah Orr Gervais was a remarkable woman who left a lasting impact on the world. She fought cancer with bravery and dignity, and she lived her life with love and joy. She was a softball legend and a cancer hero. She was Kennah Strong. And we will always remember her.
