Greg Kampe, the head basketball coach at Oakland University, experienced a life-altering health crisis that led to a significant transformation in his life. This is the story of his battle with sepsis and the changes he has embraced since then.
A Health Scare
In the summer, Greg Kampe faced a harrowing health ordeal that began with kidney stones and escalated into a life-threatening blood infection called sepsis. Kampe's ordeal began in March during the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). Despite experiencing pain during the team's victory over Clemson, he initially dismissed it. The next morning, the pain intensified, and his staff urged him to seek medical attention.
Three hours later, he underwent surgery, where doctors attempted to remove the kidney stone but could only insert a stent. He coached Oakland's next game at Richmond, where the Golden Grizzlies lost. A week later, he underwent another surgery to remove the stone, but doctors discovered a larger stone lodged in his kidney. The stent remained in place, and he was prescribed medication to dissolve the stone.
Kampe's health took a turn for the worse in July. Despite feeling unwell, he prioritized his coaching duties and traveled to recruiting events in Georgia. He attributed his symptoms to a common cold, but his condition continued to deteriorate. His assistant coach, Dan Hipsher, noticed his deteriorating condition and urged him to seek medical help. Kampe's face was yellow, and he had difficulty standing.
Kampe finally went to the hospital, where doctors discovered a severe infection caused by the kidney stones. His temperature soared to 106.7 degrees, and his heart rate reached 146 beats per minute. Kampe experienced convulsions, prompting the medical staff to administer rapid response measures. A nurse even inquired if he desired a clergyman, indicating the severity of his condition.
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Kampe spent five days in the intensive care unit (ICU) while doctors worked to stabilize him. He was diagnosed with sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by an infection in the bloodstream. The infection led to a drop in blood pressure and decreased circulation. Kampe also developed water in his lungs.
After several days in the ICU, Kampe's condition improved, and he was transferred to a regular room. He was released from the hospital on July 21, but the surgery to remove the kidney stones was postponed due to the infection. A week later, doctors successfully removed six infected kidney stones from his back.
A Wake-Up Call
Kampe's near-death experience served as a wake-up call, prompting him to reevaluate his priorities and lifestyle choices. He recognized the importance of seeking medical attention promptly and urged others, especially men, to prioritize their health and not delay medical care.
He acknowledged that his demanding coaching schedule and travel commitments had led him to neglect his health. He realized that he needed to make significant changes to his diet and lifestyle to prevent future health issues.
Embracing a Healthier Lifestyle
Since his health scare, Kampe has made significant strides in improving his well-being. He has lost weight and adopted a healthier diet. Kampe, known for his fondness for Diet Dr. Pepper and gas-station food from 7-Eleven, has made a conscious effort to eliminate these unhealthy habits.
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Kampe has shed 25 pounds and aims to lose more. He is committed to making healthier food choices and reducing his consumption of sugary drinks.
A Coaching Legend
Greg Kampe's journey to becoming the longest-tenured head coach at a single school in Division I is a testament to his dedication, adaptability, and impact on Oakland University. His story is one of loyalty, perseverance, and the ability to evolve in a rapidly changing landscape.
Kampe's coaching career began at Oakland University, then a Division II school. Over the years, he has transformed the program into a Division I contender, leading the Golden Grizzlies to three NCAA Tournament appearances in 2005, 2010, and 2011.
His success has not gone unnoticed by his peers. Prominent coaches like Rick Barnes, John Calipari, and Tom Izzo have lauded Kampe's coaching abilities and expressed surprise that he never received an opportunity to coach at a Power Five conference.
Kampe's coaching philosophy is rooted in adaptability. He has embraced changes in the game, from allowing players to wear different shoes to incorporating new offensive and defensive strategies. He understands that to remain competitive, he must constantly evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of college basketball.
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Kampe's influence extends beyond the basketball court. He is actively involved in charitable endeavors, including Coaches vs. Cancer, and has raised significant funds for cancer research. He is also known for his generosity towards the homeless, providing them with cigarettes, cash, and winter clothes.