Sept. 13, 2008

Keith and JoEllen Barnes released the following statement Saturday afternoon concerning the condition of their daughter Allison Barnes.

Allison Barnes is a sophomore at the University of North Carolina from Bel Air, Md. (C. Milton Wright High School). She is a member of the Tar Heels' women's swimming and diving team and earned her first varsity letter in the 2007-08 school year while competing in the distance freestyle events for Coach Rich DeSelm's team. The statement from the Barnes family follows:

"At this time Allison remains in critical condition after an event that occurred this past Tuesday. Allison's mother, her sister (Amanda, UNC Class of 2008 and former Tar Heel lacrosse player) and I would like to thank Dr. James Ford and Dr. Mike Contarino, along with all the doctors and nurses on staff at UNC Hospitals.

"We would also like to thank Chancellor Holden Thorp, UNC athletic director Dick Baddour, head swimming coach Rich DeSelm, assistant swimming coach Mike Litzinger, head women's lacrosse coach Jenny Levy, assistant women's lacrosse coach Phil Barnes and all of the athletic family here at UNC for their continued support during this challenging time. Our family continues to covet your prayers for Allison during this journey and we hope soon to be able to speak to you with encouraging news."