Students remember Kiski teacher and inspirational cancer fighter

KISKI, Pa. — Jaime Vick Moran, the local teacher and coach who inspired many while battling leukemia multiple times, has died.

Moran, who taught math and coached girl’s volleyball in the Kiski Area School District, died Monday morning at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. She was 28.

Moran, was first diagnosed with Acute Lymphatic Leukemia at the age of 14. She fought the leukemia off twice, going into remission both times, but couldn’t win the final battle.

Making her battle with cancer even more remarkable, Moran was a star basketball player for Kiski Area High School from 1998-2002.

Moran and fellow volleyball coach Ellen Toy's cancer battles became highly publicized when they were both diagnosed with cancer in 2009. Their diagnoses inspired Kiski Area's "Jam the Gym", a volleyball event that benefits multiple cancer charities.

"She was with me the day I was diagnosed. Couldn’t have been a better person to help me through that,” said Toy.

The Kiski Area High School volleyball team came together Tuesday to remember the inspirational assistant coach.

Kiski junior Rachel Frye explained "She never let you get down. When you got down, she brought you right back up."

Coaches and players left heartfelt messages for Moran during the time of remembrance.

"Those of us whose lives she did touch will forever hold that dear. She's given them this sense of faith and courage," said Toy.

Moran is survived in death by her husband Mark, and her parents Dave and Debbie Vick.

Channel 11's news exchange partners at TribLIVE contributed to this report.

WPXI