Team USA track and field star Noah Lyles recently wrapped up his eventful journey at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The 27-year-old Noah Lyles, now recognized as the “fastest man alive,” achieved remarkable success despite battling a range of health challenges, including asthma, allergies, ADHD, and a recent COVID-19 diagnosis.
Following his gold medal finish in the men’s 100-meter final on Sunday, Aug. 4, Lyles took to social media to share his triumph over adversity. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, “I have Asthma, allergies, dyslexia, ADD, anxiety, and Depression. But I will tell you that what you have does not define what you can become. Why Not You!”
I have Asthma, allergies, dyslexia, ADD, anxiety, and Depression.
But I will tell you that what you have does not define what you can become.
Why Not You!— Noah Lyles, OLY (@LylesNoah) August 4, 2024
However, Lyles’ Olympic journey took a concerning turn just days later. On Thursday, Aug. 8, Lyles collapsed on the track after securing third place in the men’s 200-meter final, which was considered his strongest event. Despite winning the bronze medal, he was visibly exhausted and had to be taken away in a wheelchair.
Lyles Tests Positive for COVID-19
On the same day, USA Track and Field confirmed that Lyles had tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, Aug. 6. Despite the diagnosis, Lyles made the courageous decision to compete in the men’s 200-meter final.
“After a thorough medical evaluation, Noah chose to compete tonight. We respect his decision and will continue to monitor his condition closely,” a USATF spokesperson said.
In an interview with NBC’s Lewis Johnson, Lyles described the onset of his symptoms. “I woke up early, about 5 a.m. on Tuesday morning, and I was just feeling really horrible. I knew it was more than just being sore from the 100,” Lyles explained.
Lyles was one of at least 40 athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite this setback, Lyles opted to withdraw from the men’s 4×100-meter relay, allowing himself to focus on his recovery.
In a heartfelt Instagram post on Thursday, Lyles announced the end of his Olympic journey. “I believe this will be the end of my 2024 Olympics. It is not the Olympics I dreamed of, but it has left me with so much joy in my heart,” he wrote.
Managing Severe Asthma
Lyles’ journey to becoming the world’s fastest man is particularly remarkable given his lifelong battle with severe asthma. Born in Florida and raised in Alexandria, Virginia, Lyles has dealt with asthma since childhood.
“I didn’t get to participate in sports until I was about seven or eight… there wasn’t a time that I can remember where asthma was not an issue,” Lyles shared in the Netflix documentary series “SPRINT.” He recounted the many nights he spent in the hospital as a child, receiving medication to calm his asthma episodes.
Asthma, a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, can be particularly challenging for athletes. During an asthma attack, the airways’ muscles tighten, the airway lining swells, and the body produces more mucus. This combination can lead to wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
Despite these challenges, Lyles has managed to control his asthma through medication and careful management of triggers, such as dust and allergens. His mother, Keisha Caine Bishop, took significant measures to reduce dust in their home, including removing carpets, curtains, and stuffed animals.
ADHD and Dyslexia: Challenges in the Classroom and Beyond
In addition to his physical health challenges, Lyles has also been open about his struggles with ADHD and dyslexia. Diagnosed in childhood, these conditions made school particularly difficult for Noah Lyles.
ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects executive functioning, making it difficult to focus, control impulses, and manage behaviours. Dyslexia, a learning disorder, impacts the ability to read and write due to difficulties processing speech sounds and their relationship to words or letters.
For Lyles, sports, particularly running, became an outlet for his abundant energy. Studies have shown that exercise can help improve symptoms of ADHD, particularly in children. Lyles’ success in athletics is a testament to his ability to channel his energy into a positive and productive outlet.
Struggles with Depression
Noah Lyles has also been candid about his struggles with depression, particularly in the lead-up to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated his depression, leading him to start medication.
In an emotional post-race interview after winning a bronze medal in the 200-meter race at the Tokyo Olympics, Lyles opened up about his mental health struggles and the importance of seeking help. “Somebody asked me why I told people on Twitter that I was on antidepressants… I wanted them to know that it’s OK not to feel good and you can go out and talk to somebody,” he said.
Conclusion
Noah Lyles’ journey to the top of the Olympic podium is a story of resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit. Despite facing significant health challenges, including asthma, ADHD, dyslexia, and depression, Lyles has proven that these obstacles do not define him. As he continues to inspire others with his story, Lyles remains a powerful advocate for mental health and a shining example of what can be achieved when you refuse to let your challenges hold you back.
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