A 21-year-old aspiring MMA fighter and personal trainer from Melbourne, Jake Sendler, tragically succumbed to a severe muscle condition known as rhabdomyolysis. The condition, which is often triggered by intense physical activity, was unknown to Sendler until it escalated to a critical stage. Despite the tireless efforts of medical professionals, Sendler passed away on March 13, less than a fortnight after his hospital admission.
Sendler, who was also pursuing a career as a physical education teacher, was urgently admitted to the hospital and placed in intensive care. His family was advised to brace for the worst as his condition was precarious and doctors were unsure of his survival chances. After several days in a medically induced coma and undergoing multiple surgeries, Sendler eventually lost his battle with the condition.
Sharone Sendler, Jake’s mother, shared the heart-wrenching details of her son’s last moments. She revealed that during an emergency surgery, doctors found extensive tissue damage that was irreparable. After bidding her final farewell, she described the experience as the most devastating moment of her life.
Sharone is now dedicated to raising awareness about rhabdomyolysis, a condition she refers to as a “silent killer.” Rhabdomyolysis is characterized by the breakdown of muscle tissue that releases a harmful toxin into the bloodstream, potentially leading to kidney failure and other serious complications. Symptoms include muscle pain, fatigue, and dark-colored urine.
For Sendler, who was actively training for an amateur MMA fight, muscle soreness did not raise any alarms. When he noticed his urine was a tea-like color, he increased his fluid intake, assuming he was merely dehydrated. Sendler, known for his healthy lifestyle and organic diet, felt “amazing” the day before his fight on March 2.
The fight at the Melbourne Pavilion was intended to be a stepping stone towards his professional MMA career. Unbeknownst to him, his organs were already beginning to fail. Despite this, he completed the full three rounds of the fight, even raising his hands at the end to signal he was not out.
Following the fight, Sendler experienced difficulty breathing and severe pain. Initially, medics and coaches believed he was dehydrated and possibly concussed. He was then rushed to the hospital, where he spent his final days.
Sharone hopes to honor her son’s memory by raising awareness about rhabdomyolysis and possibly establishing a foundation. A Go Fund Me page has been set up to support this mission and help cover unexpected costs associated with Sendler’s death.
In addition to his athletic pursuits, Sendler was studying to be a PE teacher and held a Certificate IV in Youth Work. He worked with children in addition to training his adult clients. Sharone hopes he will be remembered as a hardworking young man who was always striving to be the best he could be.