Lincoln Middle School student dies, suffered from 'flu-like symptoms'

LINCOLN - Instead of mourning the death of 12-year-old Skyla J. Reposa-Alves, who passed away at Hasbro Children's Hospital after being treated for flu-like symptoms this weekend, friends and family will be celebrating her life with balloons and cake on the day that would have been her 13th birthday, family members said this week.

The state Department of Health confirmed Tuesday that Skyla had contracted H1N1 flu making her the second swine flu-related death to affect a Rhode Island middle school, and the fifth reported swine flu death in the state.

A life-long Lincoln resident, Reposa-Alves was the daughter of Carla S. Alves and Stephanie Reposa. On Monday, Superintendent Georgia Fortunato said grief counselors were sent to the school to help students and faculty through the grieving process. They will remain there throughout the week.

Her funeral will take place Friday, Nov. 6 at 8:30 a.m. at the Bellows-Falso Funeral Chapel, 160 River Road, Lincoln, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Anthony's Church, 32 Lawn Avenue, Pawtucket. Burial will be in Mount St. Mary's Cemetery, Pawtucket. Following her burial, the reception for family and friends will be held at Father Freitas Hall of St. Anthony's Church in Pawtucket.

Relatives and friends may call Thursday 4-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Skyla's memory to the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association of New England, the Providence Animal Rescue League, or Hasbro Children's Hospital ICU Unit would be appreciated.