In recent years, there have been a troubling number of retired pro wrestlers and former WWE employees who have had to turn to crowd funding to help them through difficult times. Kamala reached out to fans after losing both of his legs to diabetes. One Man Gang’s house was recently destroyed by the Louisiana floods. And now ECW legend and former WCW and WWE title-holder Perry Saturn is asking for help from fans because he is dealing with a serious traumatic brain injury, sustained over his 14-year wrestling career.
Saturn was well-known for being one of the most colorful and enigmatic wrestlers in recent memory, with arguably his most notorious moments happening outside of the ring. He was shot in the neck and shoulder while stopping a rape in 2004. As a result of those injuries, he became addicted to meth and was homeless for a couple years. In the mid-aughts, he completely disappeared from public view and even those closest to him had no idea of his whereabouts, leading to rampant rumors of his alleged death. In 2010, he surfaced again, sober, sporting a face tattoo and happily married.
Now he and his wife need help handling his medical bills and care related to his TBI. Just a couple of days ago, Saturn opened up about his condition on Twitter, which was understandably difficult for him:
It's been a long time since my last tweet. I've been dealing with health issues. I have T.B.I. from all the concussions from wrestling.
— Perry Saturn (@PerrySaturn1) October 10, 2016
Unfortunately I'm rapidly being overwhelmed by my health issues. So I'm asking for help from anyone who can. Please go to my Go Fund Me Page
— Perry Saturn (@PerrySaturn1) October 11, 2016
I always hear God moves in mysterious ways. I now know, just because I don't agree with it, doesn't mean it's not the right plan for me.
— Perry Saturn (@PerrySaturn1) October 12, 2016
It's really hard to accept the fact you need help. It's even harder to ask for help. Thank all of you from the bottom of my heart. God Bless
— Perry Saturn (@PerrySaturn1) October 12, 2016
From the GoFundMe page that has been set up [sic]:
Perry Saturn is known the world over as one of the best sports entertainers of the 20th and 21st century. He’s been a part of ECW, WCW and the WWE.
That kind of entertainment over a 25 year career has taken a significant toll. Perry is dealing with a grade “serious” traumatic brain injury, which causes the following problems:
1) Almost constant headaches
2) Sensitivity to light
3) Brain fog – losing time, basically
4) Inability to drive or work
5) DementiaPerry is in a position to get good medical care, but he’s strapped financially. He can’t work and his wife Lisa is a full time caregiver, essentially. They live within driving distance of his care but they need money to pay living expenses, medical bills, and to arrange reliable transportation that can make it through the winter.
This seems like a lofty goal, we know – but keep in mind each MRI is $2,500, each test is $1,000 – the money flows fast and in the wrong direction.
These are wonderful people who have hit hard times. If you can help, please do. If Perry has entertained you, please give a little back.
The campaign is hoping to raise $100,ooo and has raised over $5,000 after the first day. Here’s hoping that Saturn and his wife can get the support, assistance and funds they need to get him through this difficult time.
