Uni student dies after choking at hot dog eating contest
A 20-year-old student has died after participating in a hot dog eating contest for charity.
Madie Nicpon, who attended Tufts University in Massachusetts, choked during the competition which was being held as a part of an event raising money for breast cancer awareness, the Journal News reported.
According to a statement released by the university, first responders performed "life-saving procedures on site", before Madie was transported to Mt Auburn Hospital.
She was then transferred to Massachusetts General Hospital, where she passed away on Sunday afternoon.
Remembered as a 'wonderful sister and daughter'
Ms Nicpon — who majored in biopsychology and was on the university's lacrosse team — is being remembered as a "bright light".
"She will be missed every day," an Instagram post by the university's lacrosse team read.
"Madie will be remembered as a bright light, a social butterfly, an amazing teammate, a kind and generous person, a wonderful sister and daughter," it continued, adding she was someone everyone can "aspire to emulate".
"Scooter [Madie] was a true friend and teammate," read another post.
"She truly valued her relationships with her teammates and coaches. Her reach was far beyond our team — she was a true connector on campus and touched every single person she met.
"She has and will continue to inspire us every day. We should all strive to live life a little bit more like Scooter did — a person that valued love, loyalty, compassion and friendship."
Thousands attended vigil
Approximately 3,000 people, including students, faculty and staff, gathered for a candlelight vigil on Sunday.
"The number of community members who turned out to lend support to each other, to Madie’s friends, and to her family was a testament to how many lives Madie touched during her time at Tufts," the university said.
A GoFundMe has been set up to help Ms Nicpon's grieving family cover medical expenses and funeral costs.
In just four days, A$220,000 has been raised.
"Her contagious smile and laughter lit up every room. Her generosity and kindness has left a lasting impact on those around her," the fundraising page read.
"We love you, our dearest Madie."
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