Chicago firefighter partially paralyzed after being injured in SF's Escape From Alcatraz triathlon

Chicago firefighter Jose Perez is undergoing a difficult recovery after sustaining partial paralysis during the Escape from Alcatraz triathlon in San Francisco. The injury occurred during the swim portion when another competitor landed on him as he jumped into the Bay. Perez described the incident, stating it felt like “a few hundred pounds” hit his head, rendering him immobile. A fellow racer helped him by flipping him onto his back, allowing him to breathe amid the chaos. Currently in the intensive care unit, Perez is coping with significant pain but remains determined, drawing strength from the support of both the San Francisco Fire Department and his community back in Chicago.

He is recognized as a dedicated firefighter and father, and the GoFundMe launched by his colleagues aims to alleviate his medical expenses. The incident underscores the risks associated with triathlons, particularly during the transition phases like swimming. Perez's story highlights the camaraderie and support within the firefighting community during challenging times.