Arnold Schwarzenegger After Installing a Pacemaker: Feels Like a Machine
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| Last week, 76-year-old Arnold Schwarzenegger underwent heart surgery for the umpteenth time. (AFP/Patrick T. Fallon) |
-- Arnold Schwarzenegger felt like he was a machine after having a pacemaker installed last week. The installation was carried out after the 76-year-old man underwent his third heart operation several years ago.
"Last Monday, I underwent surgery to feel more like a machine. I had a pacemaker installed," said Arnold in an episode of the Arnold's Pump Club podcast which aired Monday (25/3) and was reported by the New York Post.
"I have to say, just telling you all this is in contrast to my childhood in Austria, where no one ever discussed medical issues," he continued.
Schwarzenegger said that basically he is one of those people who feels that health problems are a personal matter. However, he received lots of messages, both on social media and in emails.
This message came from people who were born with a bicuspid aortic valve like him. Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is an abnormal condition in which the heart's aortic valve only contains two valves, not three as in normal conditions.
"They told me that talking about my valve replacement surgery had given them the courage and hope to face the disorder," said Arnold Schwarzenegger.
"So, since I know that going against my secretive instincts and being transparent will help others, what else can I do?" he continued.
In 2018, Schwarzenegger underwent open heart surgery to replace a pulmonary valve, following a previous pulmonary valve replacement he had in 1997.
In 2020, the actor, who was also governor of the state of California, underwent heart surgery again to replace the aortic valve.
Undergoing multiple heart surgeries, the former bodybuilder told his fans he is on the road to a speedy recovery.
"First of all, I want you to know, I'm in good shape," Schwarzenegger said.
"I had surgery Monday, and Friday, I was at a big environmental event with my friends and fellow fitness warrior, Jane Fonda," she continued.