Former MMA star Ben Askren has emerged from a nearly two‑month hospital ordeal following life‑threatening pneumonia and a double lung transplant, and his emotional homecoming offers a powerful message of resilience and community support.
At a Glance
- Ben Askren spent 59 days hospitalized with pneumonia triggered by a staph infection.
- He underwent a double lung transplant roughly two weeks ago.
- During his illness, Askren flatlined four times and lost around 50 pounds.
- He was discharged today and shared an emotional update from a car ride home with his wife.
- He now faces the challenge of relearning basic functions but feels buoyed by the compassion he received.
A Harrowing Fight for Life
Askren was rushed to the hospital in early May after severe pneumonia set in, exacerbated by a stubborn staph infection. His condition quickly worsened, requiring both a ventilator and Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) treatment. The situation became critical; Askren flatlined four separate times before a donor match was found for a double lung transplant. Remarkably, he survived the high-risk operation and began the long road to recovery.
Watch a report: Ben Askren Is Going Home After 59 Days ❤️ #ufc
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Emotional Homecoming
On July 22 (Day 59 of hospitalization), Askren’s wife, Amy, helped him into a car to head home. In a heartfelt video, he said: “I’m out, with my beautiful wife… I still can’t really walk—I’ve got to reteach myself to do that… that was a long journey.” Amy added that he had been “too close” to dying multiple times. The former champion praised the flood of support—from GoFundMe donations to visits from friends nationwide—and vowed to focus on healing and hope.
Despite a dramatic 50-pound weight loss, Askren is already rebuilding strength and embracing daily progress. Though he doesn’t remember much of his hospitalization, he’s determined to give back to those who stood by him.
Community’s Ring of Support
Askren’s recovery is more than a personal victory—it’s a tribute to the power of solidarity. The MMA and wrestling world rallied behind him: UFC president Dana White pledged financial backing, while former opponent Jake Paul and fans shared words of encouragement. This collective effort helped sustain Askren through his darkest days.
Now returned home, he faces the tough journey of relearning mobility and rebuilding strength. Yet his sense of gratitude is undimmed: “I plan on living a while,” he said, his voice filled with resolve and hope.
This story underscores the extraordinary capacity of human perseverance—and how a community’s love can literally save a life.
