This Email came to us from Nikki Dyrden. We thought it fitting to post in its entirety.
Tara Sloan passed away this morning (Sat. March 11 at 10am) her doctors removed her from a medically induced coma the evening before, in order to see if she could begin to recover on her own. Unfortunately her condition grew worse, not better.

I was hoping you could put something on the site about Tara. But not just about the accident but about what a good person she was. You can just quote me or whatever you prefer. But I would like it said that her parents, Fred and Gayle wanted all the evenings swims dedicated to her memory. As a friend and teammate of Tara's I was fortunate to enjoy her smile, her fight, and her passion, on a daily basis. Tara was able to dedicate herself to her sport, while always remaining in touch with her creative and musical side. Her laughter was contagious, her desire to experience all life had to offer was inspiring and her dedication to her family and friends was heartwarming.

The swimming world has lost not only an amazing athlete, but also a strong, courageous and intelligent young woman. Her spirit lives in all of us, and we are better people for having known her.

On behalf of Nick Thierry and myself Marco Chiesa, we would like to pass on our personal condolences to her parents, family and friends.