21-year-old Jake Sendler, an athlete from Australia, died from a rare condition diagnosed by doctors after a fight. Namely, Jake was an amateur MMA fighter.
He died on March 13, 11 days after being admitted to the hospital, and how his family shared their heartbreak over the devastating loss and issued a warning.
Jake’s mom, Sharon, told News.com that her son complained of muscle soreness and urine discoloration, but didn’t see it as anything serious or concerning.
Before the fight on March 2, doctors cleared Jake to compete in the three round fight. Following the fight, he couldn’t get out of the ring himself and was helped out. After that an ambulance was called.
The young athlete was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis, a rare muscle injury during which the muscle breaks down.
“This is a life-threatening condition that can happen after an injury or excessive exercise without rest. If you notice symptoms like weak and sore muscles and color changes in your pee, contact your healthcare provider,” according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Sharon explained, “When we got into the ICU, the doctor said when they opened him up again (in another emergency surgery) there was just too much tissue that had died and there was so much damage, there was nothing more they could do.”
“I said to him, ‘It’s OK, baby, you can rest now, you fought so hard’ and I kissed him on the forehead and he passed away. It was the worst moment of my life.”
The family of this young athlete who died of a rare condition has started a GoFundMe page.
The organizers of Jake’s final fight also paid their tributes.
“Road to HEX is deeply saddened by the passing of amateur MMA fighter Jake Sendler. His dedication, talent, and spirit will be greatly missed.
“We extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and everyone at Mat Masters Academy.”
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