“It’s Very Humiliating”: Bodybuilding Legend With Leg Amputation Reveals Harsh Reality of His Struggle

While a tragedy didn’t define bodybuilding legend Flex Wheeler, it certainly impacted his way of living. The bodybuilding veteran was robbed of the opportunity to live life like any other regular human. Yet, he knew that he needed to persevere in order to make an impact. Lo and behold, the legend recently won the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Arnold Sports Festival 2023 and reflected on his struggles.

Recently, Wheeler took to Instagram to talk about his challenges as an amputee. Living in a world where not many people are aware of these difficulties, the former bodybuilder wanted to highlight certain aspects. In a vulnerable conversation, the Sultan of Symmetry spoke of some intimate struggles he faces.

How a tragedy helped Flex Wheeler connect to his core

Having gone through over 40 surgeries, Flex Wheeler had fallen upon the tough road of life. While he made a name for himself with four Arnold Classic titles, things weren’t as smooth regarding his health. Due to issues with his kidney, the veteran needed a leg amputation.

The life of an amputee can carry huge challenges. Flex Wheeler recently reflected upon some in a video on Instagram. While talking about how his respect for fellow amputees increased, he revealed some of his struggles. One of the setbacks he never thought of, was something as simple as going to the bathroom.

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Going face-to-face with the harsh realities of disability, the veteran revealed how he couldn’t use the bathroom without containers. This was because of his fear of falling. He detailed, “It’s very humiliating, it’s very humbling…I think it’s just really brought me back to my core.” He also noted how there were so many other things to take care of, that many may not even pay attention to. Yet, Wheeler once recalled his first steps as an amputee – full of hopes and light.

The Sultan of Symmetry gradually got back on track

Having one of the deadliest kidney diseases didn’t stop Flex Wheeler from rising. The veteran held a significant position in the bodybuilding community and kept it up with his determination and will. After his amputation due to FSGS (Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis), Wheeler came back stronger.

Upon taking his first steps with his prosthetic leg, the legend connected with his spiritual self. In an Instagram post, he wrote, “SO IT BEGINS … THANK YOU JESUS … My First Step”. Wheeler’s life has not been a walk in the park, but whatever the circumstances, Wheeler always fought and came back stronger.

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