Mourning the Death of Ryan Shay

On the 3rd of November, 2007, running wonder Ryan Shay collapsed dead, five and a half miles into his race for the Olympic marathon trials. He was 28 years old. His track and field career had accumulated a roomful of awards and titles, including four times state cross-country champion, and third place in the 2006 national marathon championships.

Ryan Shay had always been a remarkable person, not only because he was a highly accomplished runner, but because of many other things. For example, Shan impressed everyone in his kindergarten class when he dropped down and perfomed 25 one-armed pushups, a feat half of grown men in the world have difficulty doing. He was also the co-valedictorian of his high school, which showed that he had as much brains as his brawn. And most importantly, he was found to already have an enlarged heart, at the age of 14, with an extremely low average heart rate of 30 beats per minute. This was one of the reasons why he is so passionate for the marathon sport, not only does it keep him fit and earn him titles, it actually helps him overcome his low-blood pressure condition. Of course, he always double-checked with the proper medical professionals if he is allowed to participate in an event so taxing such as marathons. He hasn't been advised to not run yet, and for a generally accepted reason. Most marathoners and other track runners develop large hearts throughout their career. However, as it may come to pass, what had originally aided Ryan's condition was also the most likely culprit in his sudden death.

The cause of his death is, as of yet, undetermined. Medical investigations haven't been able to come up with conclusive results, due to the suddenness of his death. Medical experts theorize that it was due to instantaneous cardiac arrest, and that Shay died before he hit the ground. Autopsy and toxicology reports have yet to be divulged-- though it must be noted that Ryan Shay's family requested to make the information public, so as to erase any rumors that Ryan Shay used any illegal substances that might have contributed to his death.

On Sunday, the day after his death, 150 people paid tribute to this great runner by walking or running in the track of the Olympic marathon trial race. Back in Michigan, more than 300 people came to witness the coming home of his body. Strangely, friends and strangers contemplated more on how Shay lived, rather than how he died, which was a sure comfort to his family.