U.S. Olympian Tragically Dies Following Childbirth Complications

Olympic medalist Tori Bowie was one of Team USA’s fastest women, winning three medals at the 2016 Rio games and becoming a world champion by the end of 2017. Once the epitome of health, the 32-year old athlete was approximately 8 months pregnant when she was found dead at in her home earlier this month. The cause of her death is presently unknown; however, officials suspect Bowie may have experienced respiratory distress and eclampsia, which is characterized by seizures following a sudden spike in a woman’s blood pressure during pregnancy.

Preeclampsia, perhaps a more commonly known term, is what precipitates eclampsia, and it is a condition that can have deadly consequences if not detected and treated. Preeclampsia is characterized by the development of high blood pressure during pregnancy, and the presence of protein in a pregnant woman’s urine is also indicative. The cause of preeclampsia is unknown, but symptoms of the condition can be similar to common pregnancy side effects. Because of this, regular prenatal visits and urinary laboratory testing are necessary to screen for preeclampsia.

While Bowie’s cause of death was ruled natural by the medical examiner, as reported by USA Today, her loss has been a major shock to the track and field community, as well as to the nation as a whole. 

Do You Suspect Your Loved One Died as a Result of Medical Negligence?

 If you believe your loved one died due to medical negligence during her pregnancy, labor, childbirth or the postpartum period, consider speaking to an experienced and compassionate birth injury attorney. The attorneys at Grant & Eisenhofer P.A. can help you understand your potential legal options, if any, and answer any questions you may have.