Lyle faced a tough decision, because if he decided to donate his bone marrow then he would not be able to continue playing. After the surgery, he will not be able to lift anything more than 20 pounds. On the other hand he could save a man’s life, but their is no time to wait.Apparently, since he's a senior, that restriction will keep him out of track and field competition for the rest of his college career. I don't know for how long he'd be under that restriction.
Well good for him, I hear donating bone marrow is very painful as well. And to throw away his hobby, career, whatever to do it is inspiring. Think if everyone on Earth did one selfless act like this during their life.