Sylvio Gravel

sylvio gravel
To celebrate Dr. Munir Boodhwani's successful aortic artery repair, I lifted 111,600 pounds over 10 hours, raising $5,000 for the Heart Institute 23 months after surgery.

In 2019, it was discovered I had an aneurysm that was in danger of potential dissection. Dr. Boodhwani and I discussed elective surgery to repair the damaged upper aortic artery. At that time, I was a competitive powerlifter. I had an otherwise healthy heart. After surgery, the damage repaired, I took it upon myself to get back into the gym. Eight months later, I started weightlifting again.

By 2023, I was competing, and by 2024, I attended the Can-Am Games, winning a gold and  silver medal for my lifts. Meanwhile, I was also participating in some strongman shows - all after surgery.

My next major competition will be in Regina in 2028. I will be 75 years old.