The E3 Rehab Podcast 218. From Life Support to Deadlifting 500 Pounds w/ Jared Maynard
Sep 16, 2025
Jared Maynard, a physiotherapist and owner of Unbreakable Strength, shares his incredible journey from severe health challenges—spending weeks on life support due to a rare condition—to deadlifting over 500 pounds. He reflects on how these experiences reshaped his coaching approach, emphasizing empathy and personal connection with clients. Listeners will be inspired by his insights on resilience, the power of identity in adversity, and the transformative role of support systems in recovery.
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Rare HLH Diagnosis Explained
- Jared was diagnosed with HLH, a rare hyperinflammatory syndrome triggered by infections including Epstein-Barr and influenza A.
- HLH caused his immune system to attack healthy cells, leading to multi-organ failure and high mortality risk.
Five Weeks On Life Support
- Six days after ER admission Jared was placed on life support and spent five weeks sedated on ventilator and dialysis.
- He experienced complications like hemorrhagic tonsillitis, pressure ulcers, infections, and tissue damage from an IV malfunction.
Waking To A Different Body
- After sedation Jared woke in a weakened body, unable to speak due to a trach and too weak to perform basic tasks.
- He faced emotional identity loss, worrying about family, business, and whether he'd recover his previous abilities.