As a bodybuilding fan, to see the favorites up on the stage, flexing their body is always a treat to the eyes. However, behind the impressive physique and the smiles, the pain and the hardships often get overshadowed. A prominent name in the said sport, Flex Wheeler, is a man of exceptional talent. Having won the ‘Arnold Classic,’ the IFBB professional was regarded as the “best competitor” by King Ronnie.

However, the sport did not just give Wheeler fame! He opened up about his physical hardships and medical journey. Moreover, he discussed about the reasons which led to his “leg amputation.”

Flex walks the memory lane

Flex started competing at a high level. He was performing well by winning several shows and was already making his name known in the public domain with his wins. However, things started to change around 1999, as he began having kidney problems.

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It was around the time when he came as the second runner-up that Flex realized that something was not right with his health. He said that after every competition, “He would rebound 30-40lb, with extreme swelling in his hands and feet, and even his genitals.”

“At Risk of Losing My Left Leg…Right Arm”: Bodybuilding Legend Was Left Devastated After Doctor Revealed His Upsetting Health Condition in 2019

He went to countless specialists to find a medical solution but to no avail! Even the doctors were unsure what caused it. The situation gradually worsened, and he suffered from ‘sudden death kidney failure.’ With no options left, despite numerous procedures, Flex was ultimately forced to have his leg amputated.

The difficult phase for Flex Wheeler

For an athlete, especially in a sport like bodybuilding, to come to a point where one needs to get their leg amputated is undeniably traumatic. And for Flex, the experience was no different. Recalling that moment, he stated, “I started crying because I knew.”

Being fully aware of what follows, the legend could only manage to say “Just take it,” to the doctor. He was in no denial of his physical state. Quoting the doctor, Flex continued, “On the one side; one artery is 100% blocked, the other artery is 90% blocked.” Knowing the gravity of the situation, he could not help but ask the doctor, “It can kill me, right?”

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The journey to fame was never easy for Flex. It cost him more than anyone could have ever imagined. Even after the procedure, Flex refused to take any narcotics for fear of getting addicted. A choice that causes him pain to date. Nonetheless, a true fighter, the ace bodybuilder never holds back from speaking about his journey. His dedication to the sport has made him truly inspirational!