#098 – When life throws an unexpected curveball, it’s the human spirit’s resilience that can turn a dire situation into a tale of triumph. In the latest episode of “Journey with Jake,” we’re introduced to Ben Lawson, a fitness enthusiast whose life was upended by an acute leukemia diagnosis. His story is a vivid portrayal of the battle one faces when their health is on the line, especially when that fight occurs in the isolation of a global pandemic.
Ben Lawson’s story begins in a small town in Michigan, where he grew up with aspirations that led him through various life stages, including time in the military. His athletic background and passion for bodybuilding were defining aspects of his life until leukemia brought everything to a screeching halt. In an intimate recount of his journey, Ben speaks about the fear that gripped him during sleepless nights, hallucinations caused by lack of sleep, and the sheer physical challenge that his illness presented. 
What makes Ben’s narrative striking is not just his personal battle but the timing of it—during the peak of COVID-19. He had to navigate his treatment under stringent protocols, with limited support from loved ones. An error on a hospital form forced Ben to confront his mortality, making him reevaluate his directives for life-saving measures. It’s a chilling reminder of the complexities of navigating a health crisis during unprecedented times.
Ben’s story takes us deeper into the aspects of human psychology that come to the fore in the face of a life-threatening disease. The profound loneliness that accompanies the journey back to health, the societal expectations on men to mask vulnerabilities, and the determination to rebuild—Ben touches on these with the sensitivity they deserve. Post-recovery, he discusses restarting his business, his financial success, and the joy of recent personal milestones.
The podcast episode is not only an account of Ben Lawson’s survival and reinvention but also serves as a beacon of hope for listeners. It’s an invitation to uncover the strength that adversity can bring forth and to appreciate the incredible journey of a man who stood in defiance of being reduced to a statistic.
As Ben candidly shares his experiences, we are reminded that life is a precious, fragile gift. Each breath, each moment, each day is a chance to build a narrative of courage and hope. His journey from the depths of illness to the peaks of personal and professional success is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Join us in this episode as we explore the resilience that lies within and get inspired by the man who fought his way back to life’s triumphs. 
In a world where health battles are often fought behind closed doors, Ben Lawson opens his to the world, sharing the raw and real aspects of his fight with leukemia. His story is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the importance of fitness, both mental and physical, in overcoming life’s most challenging obstacles. Tune in to “Journey with Jake” and witness a story of endurance, rebirth, and the will to embrace life beyond leukemia.