Arnold Schwarzenegger, aged 76, revealed that he underwent pacemaker surgery following three prior open-heart procedures.
Speaking on his podcast, Arnold’s Pump Club, the Terminator icon stated, “Last Monday, I had surgery to become a little bit more of a machine: I got a pacemaker.”
Despite the recent surgery, Schwarzenegger expressed his wellness, attending a significant environmental event with Jane Fonda by the end of the week, highlighting the unexpected turn of events from his surgery earlier in the week.
Schwarzenegger’s medical journey includes two valve replacement surgeries in 1997 and additional operations in 2018 and 2020, all addressing the same valves, typically lasting 12 to 15 years post-operation.
Reflecting on his upbringing in Austria, where discussing medical issues was taboo, Schwarzenegger emphasized the contrast with his current openness about his health struggles.
Acknowledging the support from fans facing similar medical challenges, Schwarzenegger stressed the importance of being transparent about his procedures, offering courage and hope to others dealing with similar conditions.
His new pacemaker aims to regulate his irregular heartbeat, attributed to scar tissue in his heart, a condition shared by his late mother, who did not undergo necessary surgeries.
In his podcast message, Schwarzenegger reassured listeners that they are not alone in their health battles, urging them to prioritize their well-being and seek medical advice without fear.
He emphasized the camaraderie of Arnold’s Pump Club, where collective strength empowers individuals to overcome any obstacle, echoing a sentiment of unity and support.