Gerald Cheney, the longtime anthem singer for the Chicago White Sox, collapsed on the field on Wednesday night while performing the black national anthem, leading to his hospitalization. The scary incident happened as Cheney was giving his rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” amid “Jackie Robinson Day” festivities.
Medical personnel tended to Cheney for several minutes before he was carried off the field on a gurney.
“White Sox longtime anthem performer, Gerald Chaney, experienced a medical emergency while singing during pregame tonight,” a statement from the team read. “He received treatment by EMTs at the ballpark and was alert prior to being transported to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
“The entire White Sox family is sending love to Gerald and his family for a full and speedy recovery.”
Wednesday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays was delayed by 12 minutes after the terrifying moment.
“I’m really glad to hear that he is doing well,” White Sox manager Will Venable said following the game, according to Fox Sports. “But obviously a scary moment. I think everyone did a great job in responding and did the best to make sure he’s all right. Really good news to hear that he is all right. That’s the most important thing, obviously.”
The White Sox lost the game 8-3.
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.