Racing Louisville said in a statement Monday that midfielder Savannah DeMelo is “awake and in good spirits” one day after experiencing a medical emergency on the field during a game at the Seattle Reign.
The match was suspended at halftime Sunday night as DeMelo was attended to. Racing Louisville said that the teams will play the second half of the match Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT without fans in the stadium. The score was 0-0 after the first half.
DeMelo is undergoing tests in the Seattle-area hospital.
“I’m lucky to have my family with me while I’m waiting for test results to come back,” DeMelo said in a statement. “I’m extremely thankful to our whole medical staff for the quick response. They’ve been with me every step of the way. The support from everyone has truly meant the world to me, and I’m excited to cheer on the girls this week.”
DeMelo, 27, slowly took a seated position on the field of play two minutes into first-half stoppage time and a teammate was attending to her while a referee called for trainers to check her out. Several seconds later, DeMelo collapsed while a second teammate was holding her arm in an effort to keep her upright.
DeMelo was diagnosed with Graves’ disease last year and revealed her health struggles earlier this season after she left a match early due to chest tightness and dizziness. According to the Mayo Clinic, Graves’ disease is an immune system condition that causes hyperthyroidism.
“We are so grateful for the outpouring of support for Savannah,” Racing head coach Bev Yanez said in a statement. “This has been an incredibly difficult time for our players and staff, who all care deeply for her, and it’s meaningful to know the entire NWSL community is behind Sav as she recovers. I’m especially thankful to the medical personnel who acted quickly to ensure her safety on Sunday night, as well as to the Seattle Reign and the NWSL for their support. It has truly meant the world to us. We will continue to support Savannah and her family in any way we can.”
–Field Level Media
