When classes at Ohio State University resumed in August, members of the women’s water-polo club talked about the idea of a benefit during the season but didn’t settle on a cause.
Then tragedy struck in November: Their teammate Katie Johanni died in her sleep, apparently of an epileptic seizure.
Suddenly, fellow club members knew their mission: They would raise money for research and spread awareness of epilepsy in memory of Johanni, a graduate of Upper Arlington High School who had battled the condition since childhood.
“Katie’s death cemented our plans,” said OSU senior Tammy Katz, president of the club.