*Keisha Caine Bishop, Noah Lyles‘ mother, is speaking out about the Olympics security’s alleged refusal to assist her son after he collapsed following the men’s 200-meter final.
Lyles, who ran despite a COVID-19 diagnosis, fell at the finish line and had a temperature of 102 degrees, according to his coach. His mother recounted the distressing experience on Instagram, criticizing security for ignoring her pleas for medical help, New York Post reports.
“This was one of the scariest moments of my life!” Caine Bishop wrote on Instagram.
“Watching my son hold his chest gasping for air while the stadium security refused to call a Dr. as I begged them to send him help,” she continued. “They also refused to do anything to help. They totally ignored me! No parent should ever have to experience this feeling of helplessness!”
Lyles’ mother thanked NBC Olympics and USA Track and Field staff for their support.
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“However, I want to thank the @nbcolympics team for helping me during this moment. Thank you for seeing me & my son as human beings and not just another story. Words cannot express my gratitude for your empathy, professionalism, and kindness,” she wrote.
Lyles has since recovered from COVID-19 and tested negative. He is expected to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
We reported earlier, Lyles consulted with medical professionals before the 200-meter final, leading to the discovery that he had tested positive for COVID-19. Despite the diagnosis, he never once considered withdrawing from the race. The impact of the virus on his body was evident during the race, as Lyles found it challenging to maintain his characteristic form.
Ultimately, Lyles clinched a bronze medal—a monumental feat given the circumstances. The strain of the illness was unmistakable as Lyles, completely exhausted and unable to stand, was wheeled off the track at Stade de France, a striking contrast to the jubilant athlete who had celebrated just days earlier, according to the NY Post.
READ MORE FROM EURWEB.COM: Noah Lyles w/COVID-19 Wins Bronze – Bested/Shaded by Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo Who Called Him ‘Arrogant,’ ‘Loud’ | WATCH
