**Bam Margera Celebrates Nearly Two Years of Sobriety Through Skateboarding**
Bam Margera, the former professional skateboarder and MTV star known for his roles in “Jackass” and “Viva La Bam,” is on the path to recovery after battling substance abuse for much of his adult life. Having undergone 13 rehab stints, totaling over three years of treatment, Margera is now approaching two years of sobriety, attributing his success to his lifelong passion for skateboarding.
In a recent interview, Margera shared, “I realized I don’t need to be on any medication — skateboarding is my medication. As long as I do a trick a day, it keeps my sanity sane.” His journey has not been easy, especially after the tragic loss of his close friend and co-star Ryan Dunn in 2011, which led him down a dark path and ultimately resulted in his removal from “Jackass Forever” in 2022.
Reflecting on his struggles, Margera recalled a pivotal moment in 2013 when doctors described his legs as “dry-rotted rubber bands” due to alcohol abuse. “I kind of lost hope about skating,” he admitted. However, with the support of his wife, a stretch coach, he began a daily stretching routine that revitalized his body and reignited his passion for skateboarding. “My 45-year-old legs feel like they’re 22 again,” he said.
Margera’s health took a serious turn when he spent eight days on life support due to COVID-19 and pneumonia, during which he experienced multiple seizures. This life-altering experience prompted him to make significant changes, leading him back to skateboarding. “When I detoxed and lost a little bit of weight, I got back on the skateboard again, and my muscle memory eventually came back,” he explained.
Despite facing challenges, including injuries while relearning tricks, Margera has persevered. “That lack of confidence after that, I was scared to do anything… But when you start skating again every day, you start learning how to fall again,” he noted.
Now at 44, Margera is set to appear as a playable character in the upcoming reboot of “Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3 + 4.” Although he initially missed the deadline for inclusion, a chance meeting with Tony Hawk led to his participation in the game. “It’s a real honor to be in the game. It really puts skaters on the map for people that aren’t diehard,” he expressed.
As Margera continues his journey of recovery and rediscovery, he remains a testament to the power of passion and resilience in overcoming life’s challenges.
**FAQ**
**Q: How has Bam Margera’s journey influenced his skateboarding career?**
A: Bam Margera’s journey through addiction and recovery has reignited his passion for skateboarding, allowing him to return to the sport he loves while promoting a message of resilience and hope.
