Rachel Apa, a 24-year-old former Division I field hockey player for Bucknell University, died on Sunday, November 1, from complications related to rhabdomyolysis after collapsing at mile 24 of the New York City Marathon. She was just 2.2 miles from the finish line.
Apa received immediate medical attention and was transported to Mount Sinai Medical Center, where physicians worked for over six hours to save her. She was pronounced dead around 9:40 p.m., according to The New York Times.
Rhabdomyolysis is a condition where overexertion causes muscles to break down, leading to muscle fiber disintegration. This process can release toxic components into the bloodstream and kidneys, potentially causing kidney damage.
Apa was running the marathon to raise funds for Parkinson's disease research in honor of her late grandfather, who died in 2022. She had written on the Parkinson's Champions fundraising website that her grandfather taught her to "stay active, push my limits and embrace challenges," and she was inspired to honor his memory after watching the disease impact his mobility.
She successfully raised over $55,000 for the Parkinson's Foundation. In a statement, the foundation expressed its sadness at Apa's passing, calling her decision to run a "deeply personal" one and expressing admiration for her determination.
Charleston Southern University (CSU), where Apa had begun her MBA program in August, also mourned her loss. University officials noted her stated mission to use her talents and opportunities to make a positive impact on those around her and to "demonstrate Christ’s love and character in both business and everyday life."
Former field hockey teams, including Bucknell Field Hockey and the Central Penn Field Hockey Club, paid tribute to Apa, remembering her intensity, determination, and joy on the field. They expressed their deepest condolences to her family and loved ones.
Apa was also working as a product manager for an electrical component company.