“Man That’s Scary”: Born With a Rare Heart Condition, Bodybuilder’s Open Heart Surgery Worries Fitness Community

Jan 21, 2024 | 11:42 AM EST

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Renowned bodybuilder Emmanuel Alvarez was born with a rare heart condition and shocked the fitness community recently by announcing the fact that he was going to undergo open heart surgery. The announcement, made a couple of days ago, revealed how this was the reason behind Alvarez’ recent social media absence and lack of updates on lifts and competitions.

However, fans had major concerns after the startling revelation about the bodybuilder’s rare bicuspid valve condition. The urgency of the surgery was evident due to the accelerated impact on his bodybuilding lifestyle.

Intense bodybuilding routine forced him to get the surgery earlier: Alvarez

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Expressing the difficulty in making such a decision, mentioning that typically, Alvarez said that the surgery he needed was recommended after the age of 40-50. However, due to his intense bodybuilding routine, he had to undergo the procedure earlier.

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A post shared by Emmanuel Alvarez (@cubanflexx)

He revealed that he had kept going despite doctors’ warnings. Over four years, Alvarez battled memory issues, fatigue, and declining strength. Then, a tarot card reading pushed him to seek medical help. Fortunately, the surgery took place on January 19th. Later, he posted a few pictures on his Instagram story to tell fans that the surgery was a success. He expressed gratitude, and said, “Hey guys. So quick update. Surgery was a success. See here. Big a** scar, still hooked to all these types of equipment. Whatever. So I say thank you for your prayers, which is currently waiting to do my first walk, so I’ll keep you guys posted.”

The promise to share the recovery journey got Alvarez’s fans excited. Loving how the athlete was open about his ups and downs, showing both physical and mental strength, they flooded his posts with comments.

Fans wish Alvarez a speedy recovery

Despite their excitement, a few fans got carried away and started thinking that the situation was horrifying, making them feel worried about the athlete. One such comment read, “Man that’s scary. I hope the surgery goes smoothly for you and you recover well brother. Will be praying for you.”

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On the other hand, many others were spreading positivity through their comments, “Praying for a successful surgery!” Another fan encouraged Alvarez to prioritize health and expressed confidence about his return, “You will back man! Health first! Keep your head up, man!” Jumping on the bandwagon, many fans also wished him a quick recovery with one writing, “We sincerely wish you a speedy recovery. Blessings.” One shared his own story assuring the bodybuilder that the surgery was manageable, “Good luck to you in your surgery! I had the same surgery last month…it was a cakewalk…you will bounce back in no time and be better than before!”

As fans remain steadfast in their support, they eagerly anticipate the return of their beloved athlete to the competitive sphere. What’s your take on his decision to update his fans about the recovery process? Let us know in the comments below.

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