[Paige Collette’s recent appearance on Vince Russo’s live show took an unexpected turn as she transitioned from discussing wrestling to sharing her deeply personal experiences with CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome). She candidly explained how the condition impacts her entire life, including her ability to engage in intimate relationships.
Paige revealed that due to the severity of her condition, she had to refrain from physical contact for many years. She described this time as a forced isolation, where she had to relearn how to walk and cope with relentless pain, stating, “For seven years…I was never touched. I was single. I got out of my wheelchair, learned how to walk again, lost weight…I was untouchable.”
As she works towards reclaiming a sense of normalcy, even minor milestones come with significant consequences. Recently, she attempted intimacy starting with something as simple as a kiss, which left her in pain for three days. She elaborated on the harsh physical toll that basic human interactions can take on those with severe health issues.
In a candid moment, she stated, “I performed oral sex on a man this year, and I had to recover for three solid days in bed.” This revelation wasn’t merely meant to shock; Paige aims to shed light on the challenges of living with CRPS and to encourage others with serious illnesses to embrace their humanity. “I say to those who are sick: Be human. You have desires, you have needs, and you are allowed to be human,” she urged.
Her honesty about her struggles, including past homelessness and her journey in wrestling advocacy despite ongoing pain, illustrates the multifaceted challenges she faces.
This vulnerability matters to wrestling fans because it humanizes the athletes who engage in the sport, reminding everyone that behind the façade of strength and toughness are real individuals overcoming immense obstacles. It could foster greater empathy and understanding within the wrestling community, encouraging conversations about not only physical prowess but also the mental and emotional battles that many may face.
