Retired mixed martial artist and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren is currently navigating a challenging recovery period, but his focus remains fixed forward, notably free of self-pity following a recent double lung transplant. The unexpected and serious medical event required a life-altering procedure, yet Askren`s public statements reflect an uncommon resolve.
Several weeks ago, Askren was admitted to the hospital after developing a severe case of pneumonia. The infection rapidly deteriorated his condition, rendering him critically ill. Doctors placed him in a sedated state to manage his failing respiratory function. Despite fluctuations in his condition, including moments of apparent improvement followed by setbacks, his oxygen levels remained dangerously low when not sedated. It became clear his lungs were unable to adequately oxygenate his blood, a life-threatening situation that prompted medical professionals to begin evaluating him for a lung transplant.
The evaluation process culminated in the decision that a double lung transplant was necessary for Askren to regain the ability to breathe independently. The complex surgery was performed, and he is now in the intensive recovery phase, a journey he recently shared insights into from his hospital room.
Providing an update, Askren noted his steady progress, including the removal of various medical tubes, with only one remaining at the time of his statement. He reflected on the rapid and drastic change his health underwent, observing that the transplant evaluation began roughly a month prior to his update, highlighting the swift escalation from severe illness to requiring a major organ transplant.
What stands out significantly in Askren`s commentary is his explicit rejection of feeling sorry for himself. Despite the immense physical and emotional toll of such a medical crisis, and the permanent change to his life with transplanted organs, he addressed the temptation to succumb to self-pity directly. He admitted to a fleeting moment where the thought arose – a moment of questioning why this happened to him, a non-smoker, while others with different lifestyle choices might seemingly avoid such a fate. It`s a relatable, almost ironically cruel twist of medical fortune.
However, Askren quickly dismissed this line of thinking as unproductive. Recognizing that dwelling on “why me?” or giving in to bitterness, anger, or complaint would not alter his circumstances or benefit anyone, he consciously chose to focus on the present reality and the path forward. His message is clear: the event occurred, it`s in the past, and the only viable option is to move forward with determination.
The road to recovery following a double lung transplant is substantial. Patients typically remain hospitalized for two to three weeks post-surgery for close monitoring to prevent infection and organ rejection. The timeline for returning to normal daily activities is also considerable, generally estimated at three to six months. Askren`s journey is far from over, but his declared attitude sets a powerful tone for his rehabilitation.
Ben Askren, known for his resilience inside combat arenas, now demonstrates that same tenacity in a far more personal and critical battle. His refusal to yield to self-pity, even in the face of a life-threatening and transformative medical event, offers a perspective focused entirely on recovery and moving forward. As he anticipates leaving the hospital, his message resonates as a reminder that mindset can be a critical factor in overcoming even the most daunting challenges.
Marcus Blakely