Former Soccer Player Ido Aksberg Recounts Near-Fatal Illness

Two years after a severe medical crisis, former Israeli soccer player Ido Aksberg is still recovering and living with significant disabilities. In a special interview, Aksberg revealed that he suffers from chronic pain, relies on medication, and rarely leaves his home, stating he is "100 percent disabled." He underwent a lung transplant and had parts of his toes amputated during attempts to save his life.

Aksberg explained that his condition began with a common flu, which rapidly escalated into a system-wide collapse. He was placed in a medically induced coma and on a ventilator for two months at Ichilov Hospital. The lack of oxygen to his extremities led to the amputation of his toes and caused paralysis in his left foot, severely impacting his mobility and stability. He also takes medication to prevent rejection of his new lungs, which weakens his immune system and requires him to wear a mask when going out.

Despite the ongoing challenges, Aksberg expressed a strong will to live, stating, "I am a very strong person by nature. I have to say thank you that I am alive." He shared that he underwent rehabilitation alongside former hostages and soldiers, which put his own struggles into perspective. He acknowledged the difficulty of his daily life, including chronic pain and limited mobility, but chooses not to complain.

Aksberg, who scored over 2,000 goals in his career, now watches soccer from home and his son plays for Maccabi Herzliya. He is currently unable to work and hopes for health in the new year, urging others "not to take anything in life for granted."