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The New York City marathon runner who died after collapsing just two miles from the finish line sent a string of heartbreaking texts to her dad during Sunday’s race.
Rachel Apa, who reportedly died from the muscle breakdown condition rhabdomyolysis, was said to be in “perfect health” as she embarked on what was her first marathon Sunday before seemingly complaining of pain.
“Ow,” the 24-year-old runner messaged her dad, Steve Apa, when she made it to the 18th mile point of the marathon – roughly two-thirds into the 26.2-mile race, the New York Times first reported.
“Ow, Ow,” Apa messaged after completing another mile.
Steve Apa, who was tracking her progress using the marathon’s app from his Pennsylvania home, tried to encourage his daughter – messaging “Final stretch” when she was 23 miles in.
Apa never replied to the message – before collapsing in Central Park at the 24 mile point.
She was pronounced dead late Sunday – with her dad telling the outlet she died from rhabdomyolysis, a medical condition which sees the muscles break down rapidly.
Proteins such as myoglobin are released, which can overwhelm the kidneys leading to organ failure, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
