Maggie Steffens, the celebrated three-time Olympic gold medalist, is back at the Olympics, competing for her fourth medal with the U.S. Women’s National Water Polo Team. However, her journey in Paris, France, has been overshadowed by a personal tragedy.
Steffens’ sister-in-law Lulu Conner, who traveled the world to support her at the games, has tragically died in Paris. A representative for the team confirmed the heartbreaking news, revealing to Associated press that Lulu suffered a “medical emergency” last week.
Lulu Conner was the younger sister of Maggie’s husband, Bobby Conner.
“She was so excited for the Olympics. We’re so close. She’s the light of the world. She brings so much joy to everyone. She always brings people together,” Maggie told Associated pressreflecting on her sister-in-law’s vibrant spirit.
Despite the immense sadness, Maggie found some solace in continuing to compete. “It definitely helps to play,” she shared. “I’m so out of body in a way right now. And I keep trying to remember what Lulu would have wanted and what she would have been like, you know, how I can better embody her spirit. And Lulu was someone who she gave 150 percent to in everything she did.”
On Sunday, Flavor Flav, a devoted fan of the U.S. women’s water polo team, shared a heartwarming video showing Maggie’s husband gifting him a special watch necklace that Lulu made before she passed away.
“I will be wearing a second VERY SPECIAL watch during the Olympics and beyond… MADE WITH LOVE BY ARTIST LULU CONNER,” Flav wrote on Instagram.
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