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Ben Askren’s Journey: From Critical Illness to Lung Transplant and Recovery
Ben Askren, a celebrated figure in the world of mixed martial arts and boxing, faced a harrowing health crisis that captivated fans and sparked widespread concern. This article details his journey through a severe illness, a life-saving double lung transplant, and the challenging road to recovery. We’ll explore the timeline of events,the medical procedures involved,and what the future holds for this resilient athlete.
the Initial Health Scare and Diagnosis
In early June 2024,news surfaced regarding Ben Askren’s deteriorating health. Initial reports indicated a serious respiratory issue requiring hospitalization. Subsequently, it was revealed that he was battling a severe case of pneumonia, complicated by underlying heart problems.
As his condition worsened, Askren was placed on a ventilator and required ECMO (extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation), a life-support system that assists the lungs. This critical intervention bought time for medical professionals to assess the extent of the damage and formulate a treatment plan.
A Wife’s Courageous Updates and the Transplant Decision
Throughout this challenging period, Ben’s wife, Amy, provided crucial updates to the public. She bravely shared the realities of his condition, balancing the desire for privacy with the understanding of public interest.
on June 17th, Amy revealed that Ben remained heavily sedated and on a ventilator. She expressed her hope for his awakening and his ability to share his story directly. However, she also proactively addressed potential misinformation from other sources, emphasizing her commitment to providing accurate information.
Doctors soon determined that a double lung transplant was Ben’s best chance for long-term survival. This decision, while daunting, offered a pathway to restoring his respiratory function and improving his quality of life. The evaluation process for a suitable donor began promptly.
The Life-Saving surgery and Initial Recovery
On July 9, 2025, Ben Askren underwent a successful double lung transplant. following the surgery, he spent weeks in the hospital, undergoing intensive rehabilitation and monitoring.
Remarkably, Ben was able to speak relatively soon after the procedure, though he initially had no recollection of his ordeal. He relied on Amy’s detailed journal to piece together the events of the preceding months. He also noted a lingering cough,a common side effect of the surgery.
Weeks later, Ben was discharged from the hospital, marking a significant milestone in his recovery.He expressed optimism about his prognosis and a determination to regain his strength.
Weight Loss and the Emotional Toll
The illness and subsequent transplant took a significant physical toll on Ben Askren.He experienced a dramatic weight loss of approximately 50 pounds over 45 days. At one point, he weighed just 147 pounds, a weight he hadn’t seen since he was 15 years old.
Beyond the physical challenges, Ben also spoke about the profound emotional impact of his experience.He described feeling an overwhelming sense of love and support, and even likened the experience to “having his own funeral.”
Looking Ahead: Recovery and Future Plans
Ben Askren retired from professional mixed martial arts in 2019. Following his health scare, his primary focus is understandably on his continued recovery and well-being.
While the future remains uncertain, Ben is committed to regaining his strength and adapting to life with his new lungs. He is grateful for the medical team, the donor family, and the unwavering support of his loved ones.his story serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life, the importance of organ donation, and the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a testament to the power of hope, determination, and the unwavering love of family and friends.
