American bronze medalist Olympian Simpson has announced the end of her athletics career after suffering cardiac arrest while running a pacer mile at a June track event in Raleigh.
Simpson, a 36 -year-old, represented the United States in multiple international competitions, winning gold in 1,500m in 2011 and bronze medal in 2016 at the Rio Olympics. She revealed her health condition occurred during training In June.
According to her, the medical report states she was diagnosed with an inherited heart condition known as “Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy,” which disrupted her heart.
“Scar tissue within my heart disrupted its electrical system, triggering dangerous heart rhythms that ultimately caused my heart to stop,” Simpson wrote.
Her career includes national championships and global athletics, earning her respect for her determination and persistence as an athlete.
Simpson expressed gratitude to her fans, coaches and medical team, noting the decision to retire was difficult but necessary.
“I couldn’t have written a better ending. To have my final run be a one mile race on the track, pacing young girls and running in community…I’m in awe of the goodness of what God has given me,” Simpson added.
While stepping away from competitions, Simpson stated she plans to remain in Colorado to focus on her recovery.