Columbus, Ohio – The fitness world mourns the loss of bodybuilder Jodi Vance, who tragically passed away at the young age of 20 due to severe dehydration complications. Vance’s family revealed the heartbreaking news through an Instagram statement on February 28th, emphasizing the sudden and unexpected nature of her death. They described her as a beautiful person inside and out, highlighting the profound impact she had on those around her.
Vance, who was not competing at the Arnold Sports Festival but was present as a coach to support other athletes, had posted a photo just two days before her passing, showcasing her muscular physique at The Pro’s Gym in Columbus, Ohio. Her fitness coach, Justin Mihaly, addressed her untimely death in a heartfelt Instagram video, expressing the deep sense of loss felt by her loved ones and the fitness community.
Reflecting on Vance’s personality and dedication, Mihaly acknowledged that she made a “significant error” in her training process by using hazardous substances to enhance her physique without his knowledge or approval. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing health and safety in training, stressing that there was no reason for Vance to be dehydrated since she was not actively competing at the time.
Mihaly revealed that Vance had expressed interest in using certain substances and had a dangerously high potassium level when she was admitted to the hospital. Despite efforts to intervene and caution her about the potential risks, Vance’s unwavering work ethic made it challenging for her to pull back and prioritize her well-being. The revelation of her substance use shed light on the underlying health concerns that had been troubling her in the days leading up to her passing.
In a poignant tribute to Vance, Mihaly expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from those who knew her, emphasizing the importance of learning from her tragic experience to prevent similar incidents in the future. The fitness community remembers Jodi Vance not only for her passion for bodybuilding but also for the lasting impact she had on those she trained and inspired.