A new video released on the DDP Yoga YouTube channel has provided a significant and emotional update on the health of WWE Hall of Famer Lex Luger, showing “The Total Package” taking steps unassisted for the first time in years. The video highlights Luger’s incredible progress in his long recovery from a spinal cord injury, with the help of Diamond Dallas Page and a new assistive walking device.
A Long Road to Recovery
Luger’s health struggles began in 2007 when a nerve impingement in his neck led to a spinal stroke, temporarily leaving him paralyzed. Through years of intensive rehabilitation, he regained some mobility but has primarily used a wheelchair for the past several years. The new video documents a major breakthrough in his journey.
Hall of Fame Setback
The video also provides context for a recent setback. Luger said that at the WWE Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Luger had planned to walk to the podium to give his speech but was unable to do so after a fall at the airport the day before. “We had this thing all planned out… and then I was like, now we can’t do it because I took a stupid fall at the airport,” Luger said. “I felt like I let everybody down.” Diamond Dallas Page added that “no one knew that he was supposed to walk” and that they had to call an “audible” at the last minute.
A “Life Changing” Device
The focus of the video is a new walking device that DDP said was brought to his attention by a doctor of physical therapy. The device, which straps around Luger’s waist and provides a stable frame, is “designed basically to make it so it’s really difficult to fall,” according to Rob Karlovich, the inventor of the LifeGlider
“It’s Called Freedom”
After being fitted with the device, Luger was able to stand up straight and take several steps on his own, a moment that left everyone in the room emotional. “Feels good just standing like this,” Luger said while standing unassisted. “Very secure… because I know I’m not going anywhere.”
Luger was shown getting out of his vehicle. He refused help as he walked to get his wheelchair without help. DDP was overcome with emotion as Luger said that he’s finally got freedom because he can move around on his own.
Renewed Hope
The progress shown in the video has brought a new sense of optimism to Luger’s recovery. Jonathan Young, a wrestler and Survivor contestant who was present, shared his thoughts on the moment. “Coming back now, three months later, and seeing Mr. Lex walking blew my mind,” Young said. “I think there’s real hope for Lex to walk again.”
DDP praised Luger’s unwavering dedication to his rehabilitation. “The thing about Lex, and I work with a lot of people, they don’t have his work ethic,” Page said. “They don’t have his commitment, his consistency and his discipline to want to be able to get life back.” I highly recommend that you click below to check out the video.
