Former UFC fighter Ben Askren’s situation took a dramatic turn when his wife, Amy, announced that he underwent a double lung transplant after battling a severe case of pneumonia. Amy shared this update on Facebook, recounting that Ben had been on life support for some time before receiving the transplant. She expressed immense gratitude towards the donor and their family, framing this event as a pivotal moment in Ben’s life. Just five weeks prior, he was leading a normal, healthy life, emphasizing how quickly circumstances can change. Amy requested prayers for Ben’s recovery, particularly hoping that his body would accept the new lungs.
Leading up to the transplant, Amy had been documenting Ben’s condition, mentioning that he was placed on the transplant list on June 24. A fundraising page was established to assist with medical expenses, revealing the gravity of his situation. Within days, she provided updates indicating that Ben was on a ventilator but had shown signs of progress; doctors were able to reduce his sedation enough for him to open his eyes and respond to simple gestures. Amy expressed how thankful she was for the support they received and anticipated the day when Ben could personally share updates on his recovery once he regained his strength.
Ben Askren, known for his extensive wrestling background, has had a notable career in mixed martial arts, retiring in 2019 with a record of 19 wins and 2 losses. His UFC tenure was brief, consisting of only three fights, and he won just one. In a memorable boxing match in 2021, he faced Jake Paul but was knocked out in the first round, a moment that reignited public interest in both fighters. Following this recent health crisis, Jake Paul announced that he intends to contribute to Askren’s medical expenses, showcasing a surprising level of rivalry support.
The community surrounding Ben, including fans, friends, and family, has rallied behind him during this challenging time. Amy noted that the overwhelming response from people has had a significant impact on their spirits. She conveyed her eagerness to recount all the love and support they received once Ben is stable, highlighting the emotional journey they are on. It’s a reminder of the importance of community and connection during times of personal crisis.
The recurrence of public attention on Ben’s journey post-UFC also sparks a discussion about athletes’ health, particularly in high-contact sports. Askren’s experiences shed light on the physical toll that professional fighting can take, leading to unforeseen health challenges even after one’s career has seemingly ended. The information surrounding his pneumonia and lung transplant highlights the fragility of health that can affect anyone, irrespective of their profession or physical capabilities.
In this new chapter following the transplant, Amy emphasized that every day Ben has is now a gift and a new opportunity. The emotional weight of his recovery process is significant, not just for the Askren family but also for their supporters. As they navigate this uncertain terrain, they foster hope for Ben’s health improvement and the potential for a new lifestyle built around his recovery and gratitude for the chance at life. Through prayers and communal support, they aim to turn this challenging narrative into one of resilience and hope.
