Oregon College Cheerleader Hospitalized in Critical Condition

Jacquelynn McGuyer's sudden medical emergency shocks family as she fights for her life

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Jacquelynn McGuyer, a 20-year-old sophomore at George Fox University, was rushed to the hospital over the weekend after suddenly becoming critically ill. The previously healthy college cheerleader underwent multiple surgeries and had devices installed to support her lungs and heart after her condition rapidly declined. Doctors now believe her health scare may have been caused by undiagnosed Type 1 diabetes.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of early detection and management of chronic health conditions, especially among young and otherwise healthy individuals. Jacquelynn's sudden and severe medical emergency has left her family and community deeply concerned, underscoring the need for greater awareness and support around campus health and wellness.

The details

Jacquelynn McGuyer was initially diagnosed with a minor skin abscess, but within days her condition had deteriorated to the point where she was placed on life support in the ICU. Doctors were able to restart her heart after it stopped, but she required multiple surgeries and medical devices to keep her lungs and heart functioning. Her family was shocked by the rapid decline, as Jacquelynn had previously maintained a healthy lifestyle as a college cheerleader.

  • On Friday, Jacquelynn spoke with her sister Meaghan about a skin abscess she had been diagnosed with.
  • On Saturday at 5 a.m., Meaghan received a call from her parents saying Jacquelynn was in the ICU in critical condition.
  • Just hours after being rushed to the ER, Jacquelynn's heart stopped, and doctors had to perform CPR to restart it.

The players

Jacquelynn McGuyer

A 20-year-old sophomore at George Fox University and a college cheerleader who suddenly became critically ill.

Meaghan McGuyer

Jacquelynn's sister, who was shocked by the rapid decline in Jacquelynn's health and is now waiting anxiously for her to recover.

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What they’re saying

“The next thing I know, I wake up on Saturday at 5 a.m. to a call from my parents saying Jacquelynn is in the ICU and it's bad, you should hurry.”

— Meaghan McGuyer, Jacquelynn's sister (kgw.com)

“They called a code blue and I heard my sisters name, my world stopped and I started crying.”

— Meaghan McGuyer, Jacquelynn's sister (kgw.com)

What’s next

Doctors are continuing to monitor Jacquelynn's condition and provide supportive care as she recovers. The family has started a GoFundMe to help cover the mounting medical expenses.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of regular health screenings and early detection of chronic conditions, even among young and seemingly healthy individuals. Jacquelynn's sudden medical emergency has left her family and community deeply concerned, highlighting the need for greater awareness and support around campus wellness programs.