Arnold Schwarzenegger is currently recuperating after a recent operation to install a pacemaker. During a recent episode of his podcast, “Arnold’s Pump Club,” the 76-year-old icon shared his experience of undergoing pacemaker surgery.
Schwarzenegger revealed, “I have some personal news to share. Last Monday, I underwent surgery to receive a pacemaker, making me slightly more machine than before.” He admitted that discussing his health so openly was a departure from his Austrian upbringing. However, he felt compelled to be transparent because many have confided their heart health issues to him, and by sharing his story, he believes it provides them with hope and courage.
“I want everyone to know that I’m doing wonderfully! The surgery took place on Monday, and by Friday, I was attending a major environmental event alongside my friend and fellow fitness advocate, Jane Fonda,” Schwarzenegger said, commending Fonda for her vitality and appearance.
He expressed his gratitude towards the Cleveland Clinic team for their exceptional care, making his surgical experience as comfortable as possible. Schwarzenegger explained that the surgery was necessitated by scar tissue from previous heart procedures, which caused an irregular heartbeat. Despite this, he remains upbeat, emphasizing, “That’s life with a genetic heart condition. But you won’t find me complaining.”
Schwarzenegger highlighted the importance of regular check-ups and listening to medical advice, which has kept him in good health. He shared a personal note about his mother, who passed away in 1998 after opting not to undergo valve replacement surgery. In contrast, Schwarzenegger had his valves replaced in 1997, requiring open-heart surgery, and again in 2018 and 2020.
During a routine check-up in early March, while preparing for the Arnold Sports Festival, doctors conducted extensive tests on his heart. Schwarzenegger admitted that the additional strain on his heart from an irregular heartbeat was exhausting, especially during the long days at the festival.
His doctor recommended the pacemaker after reviewing the test results, especially considering Schwarzenegger’s upcoming filming schedule for season two of “FUBAR.” “I underwent the procedure on Monday and had my new mechanical part installed,” he stated.
Schwarzenegger shared that he would need to pause his intense gym workouts for a while but assured fans he would be fully prepared for “FUBAR” next month. He acknowledged he could have kept his health issues private but chose to share his story, knowing that many of his subscribers might be facing their own health challenges. “I want you to know you’re not alone,” he said, hoping to inspire others to heed their doctors’ advice and prioritize their health.