Alena Vlasova was only 35. Photo: social media
A true tragedy has befallen Alena Vlasova, the champion of Russia in ice climbing. The 35-year-old woman had her whole life ahead of her, but a fatal twist of fate intervened. In early June, she was bitten by a tick, and encephalitis was diagnosed. Treatment proved ineffective, leading to severe complications. Ultimately, she ended up in intensive care.
As reported by the press service of the Sverdlovsk Region Mountaineering Federation, Alena fell into a coma and spent three months on a ventilator. To add to her troubles, she developed pneumonia. Doctors confirmed 70 percent lung damage. Sadly, on October 5, the young woman passed away.
The entire family and the sporting community of the region remain in shock. She is survived by her husband and a 10-year-old daughter, who held onto hope until the end that Alena would pull through.
Alena's relatives and colleagues are in shock. Photo: social media
“She is no longer with us. May she remain in our hearts as she is in this photo, cheerful, kind, open to everyone, a beloved mother, wife, daughter, and friend,” shared Alena's husband, Maxim Vlasov, expressing his grief on his social media page.
“We accomplished so much together, saw, felt, and organized so many things… There was so much more ahead, but fate had other plans… Now you are there; regret nothing. Everything you did will be remembered forever…” condolences are expressed by Kirov athlete Maria Tolokonina.
The farewell took place on October 8 at the Novomakaryevsky Cemetery in Kirov.
Vlasova became the champion of Russia shortly before that fateful bite – in February 2024, she won in the pair speed race.