Warren County 4th-grader dies after flu-related diagnosis, school district says

A southwest Warren County fourth-grader died Wednesday of cardiac arrest stemming from strep throat and flu.

Mason City Schools spokeswoman Tracey Carson relayed word about Western Row Elementary School student Sable Gibson in a written message to parents Wednesday.

Everyone in the school district is encouraged to wear pink to school Thursday (today) in Gibson's memory, Carson said in the message.

>> Highland County 3-year-old state's first flu-associated pediatric death of season 

Western Row will also bring in additional counselors to help the child’s friends and classmates deal with the news of her death.

Here’s the text of the message shared with Mason families:

Dear Mason City Schools Family,

Our Comet family is grieving tonight after learning that one of our fourth graders, Sable Gibson, died this evening. Sable's family shares that their sweet daughter was diagnosed with strep throat and influenza on Tuesday morning which lead to cardiac arrest Tuesday afternoon.

Our hearts are with the Gibson family during this very difficult time. We also lift up all of Sable's classmates, teachers and support staff. We will have additional counselors at Western Row tomorrow.

Here are some suggestions about what parents can say to their children about death. If you have any concerns about your child's reactions to this loss, please contact your child's teacher, the school counselors, or the administrative staff.

Sable was a great friend with a big heart who loved the color pink. We invite everyone to show our love and support for Sable's family and friends by wearing pink tomorrow.

Please keep the Gibson family in your thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,

Tracey Carson

Public Information Officer