Abby Connolly
When Melanie became unresponsive, those around her initiated CPR. Eventually, rescue personnel showed up, but their attempts to revive her were unsuccessful.
While on their hike, Melanie and Stephen shared some beautiful final moments together. They were talking about their upcoming wedding and listening to the song they were planning on having their first dance to.
“The song ‘KIT’ was to be our wedding song. We played it three times in the bottom of the Grand Canyon,” explained Stephen in an interview.
The band that put out the song is the Canadian alternative rock duo, Ubiquitous Synergy Seeker, who stated that they would be performing an acoustic version of “KIT” during their final show in Toronto as a tribute to Melanie.
According to an article by CTV News in Ottawa, Melanie is remembered by those that knew her as “someone who exuded joy and left those around her smiling.”
In response to Melanie’s tragic death, the National Park Service put out a reminder that those who visit and hike along the Grand Canyon should ensure that they are drinking enough water, resting in the shade throughout the day, wearing light and loose-fit clothing, and traveling with an observant companion.
It is not recommended by the NPS to hike from the rim of the Colorado River and back in one day.
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