Chicago Cubs bullpen legend Lee Smith, 66, became a powerful inspiration in 2024 when he overcame an emergency heart transplant after being diagnosed with amyloidosis, a rare disease that causes the heart muscle to fibrous and lose its ability to pump blood.
He had lost nearly 100 pounds, was unable to walk properly, and spent months in the hospital, surviving on his resilience, the love of his family, and his belief in miracles.
That November, Wrigley Field erupted in applause when Lee reappeared—skinny, with more gray hair—but still smiling. He held the artificial heart that had saved him, telling fans:
“I’m no longer an athlete, but I’m still a fighter.”
But this week, a family representative shared tearful news: the amyloidosis had returned—and this time, it was affecting his liver and nervous system.
“We thought he was saved,” his wife choked up. “The doctors said only 15 percent of patients make a full recovery. We believed Lee was one of them… until he started to wobble and feel paralyzed again.”
Faced with a new round of treatment, this time not surgery – but aggressive chemotherapy, combined with immunosuppressants to prevent his body from “attacking itself”.
Despite his declining health, Lee still asked to be taken to sit by the window each morning – where he could see the sunlight streaming down onto the ballpark behind his house.
“I haven’t thrown my last pitch yet. If I have to beat him one more time, I will,” he told his son.
An icon who never gave up
Lee Smith held the MLB record for saves for a decade. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2019, but for many fans, his greatest accolade was not his on-field records – it was his strength of character.
Some Cubs fans have started holding mass vigils at Wrigley, sending flowers and letters to his family.
“He’s saved hundreds of games,” said one veteran fan. “Now we’re all praying that he can save himself again.”
💙 UPDATE: Lee Smith’s family is asking for privacy, but says he remains optimistic and will continue to receive treatment. Please send him our deepest prayers!