Olympic gold medalist Michael Johnson is one of the most accomplished and celebrated Track & Field competitors in the history of the sport. Hes an African-American icon and prided himself in being as fit and dedicated to body wellness as any person. Thats why it came as a surprise to many of his fans when he revealed he recently suffered a mini-stroke.
Michael Johnson on Twitter
Last week I rather surprisingly suffered what’s known as a Transient Ischemic Attack or mini stroke. The good news is I’m back at home with my family, cleared of any heart issues and have already made great progress on my road to a full recovery.
Johnson, 51, accumulated four Olympic gold medals and eight World Championships in a mythical career that saw him rise to the top of the sport.
A 2004 National Track & Field Hall of Fame inductee, Johnson won his first Olympic gold medal in 1992 with the U.S. mens 4×400 meter relay team. What he did in the 96 Olympics in Atlanta was nothing short of epic. He went on to score an Olympic record in the 400 meters and a world record in the 200 meters, making him the first ever male athlete to win both events at the same Olympics.
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MJ insinuated that he had slacked in his conditioning since retiring in 2008 and unhealthy living caught up to him. According to the American Stroke Association, a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain.
Michael Johnson on Twitter
It seems these things can affect anyone, even the once fastest man in the world! I’m no stranger to a good exercise plan and have thrown myself into it with my usual focus and determination.
Johnsons announcement was met with an outpouring of support and encouragement from all over the Twittersphere.
Michael Johnson on Twitter
In these situations being a former athlete has really helped with mindset but also a reminder that you need to take of yourself. For more information on what to look out for please check out https://t.co/s55Yf3rnPd
We wish the man who was as “close to unbeatable as a runner could be,” who turned the “inevitable into the incredible,” the best of luck in his recovery.
Michael Johnson on Twitter
Minor stroke 2 weeks ago today! Recovery going well. Almost back to normal. No days off! Even today. My birthday! #ThankfulThursday
