What's happened
Ben Askren, former MMA champion, revealed he nearly died four times before receiving a double lung transplant in June. He shared his recovery journey, including losing 50 pounds and regaining strength, after a severe health crisis that kept him hospitalized for weeks. His story highlights resilience and medical advances.
What's behind the headline?
Critical Analysis
This story underscores the extraordinary resilience of Ben Askren, whose health crisis nearly claimed his life. The fact that he only remembers dying four times, with his ticker stopping for about 20 seconds, emphasizes the severity of his condition. His successful double lung transplant and rapid weight loss demonstrate advances in transplant medicine and the importance of donor availability.
The timing of this story, amid increasing awareness of organ donation and transplant success, positions Askren's experience as a testament to medical progress. It also highlights the mental and physical toll such crises impose, especially on public figures who often appear invulnerable. His public gratitude and motivation to give back reflect a narrative of hope and perseverance.
This story will likely influence public perceptions of organ donation, potentially increasing donor registrations. It also raises awareness about severe pneumonia and the importance of early intervention. The story's focus on Askren's recovery journey may inspire others facing health crises, emphasizing that survival and recovery are possible with advanced medical care and support systems.
What the papers say
The NY Post provides detailed insights into Askren's health crisis, emphasizing his near-death experience and recovery. It highlights his public statements about the severity of his illness and the significance of the lung transplant. The article also notes his MMA career achievements and the public support he received.
Contrastingly, the article from the NY Post also includes some sensational elements, such as the mention of him 'dying four times,' which, while dramatic, underscores the critical nature of his condition. The coverage focuses on his resilience and the medical miracle of his transplant, aligning with broader narratives of hope in health crises.
Overall, the coverage from the NY Post offers a comprehensive view of Askren's health journey, emphasizing the medical and personal aspects, with a tone that balances factual reporting and inspirational storytelling.
How we got here
Askren, a retired MMA fighter and Olympic wrestler, faced severe health issues in late June, leading to hospitalization with pneumonia. His wife, Amy, announced he received a double lung transplant after a period of critical illness. His health crisis followed a period of unexplained health deterioration, which he only partially recalls, and his recovery has been remarkable.
Go deeper
More on these topics
-
The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
-
Benjamin Michael Askren is an American retired professional mixed martial artist and amateur wrestler. Askren was the former Bellator and ONE Welterweight Champion before competing in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.