As you’ve probably heard by now, Springfield’s Ryan Held made the U.S. Men’s Swim Team and will be competing at the Olympic games.
Thursday, his parents, Cheryl and Randy, were given a send off at HSHS St. John’s Hospital. Cheryl says she’s very thankful for the opportunities her family has been given.
“It’s such a privilege for him to be there,” says Cheryl Held. “We’re very thankful that he’s gotten the opportunity. All the experiences that have encompassed this Olympics experience have been amazing for him, and for us.”
“The U.S. Men’s Team should be doing very well,” says Randy Held. “They should medal. They are saying it’s going to be the Australia, the French, and the U.S. for the medals.”
Obviously there’s concern of the Zika virus in Rio, but Cheryl Held says the Olympic committee has helped them take precautions.
“We’ve treated our clothes…we’re going to take DEET,” says Cheryl Held. “The Olympic gave that to each of the athletics…and gave them DEET. So we’re using precautions.”
Cheryl and Randy both work at St. John’s Hospital. Randy is nurse anesthetist and Cheryl is a registered nurse.