Tributes pour in for former college athlete who died during NYC Marathon
Fox News • • sports
Key Points:
- Rachel Apa, a 24-year-old marathon runner, died from complications of rhabdomyolysis during the New York City Marathon, collapsing just 2.2 miles from the finish line and passing away after six hours of medical efforts.
- Rhabdomyolysis is a rare condition where muscle breakdown releases toxins that can damage kidneys and other organs, often triggered by extreme physical exertion.
- Apa was a Bucknell University graduate and MBA student at Charleston Southern University, remembered for her athletic achievements, academic dedication, and commitment to helping others through her faith and community involvement.
- She was running the marathon to raise funds for Parkinson’s disease research in honor of her late grandfather, raising over $55,000 for the cause.
- Tributes from her universities, field hockey teams, and the Parkinson’s Foundation highlighted her passion, strength, and inspirational legacy while offering condolences to her family and loved ones.
