What happened to the Freeway Arm? This article explains how ‘State Property’ Freeway’s kidney failure changed his life and what happened to his arm.
Who is Freeway (rapper)?
Leslie Edward Pridgen is an American rapper popularly known for the rap group called “State Property” when he spends his most precious time with Roc-A-Fella Records along with Jay-Z. He is widely known by his stage name “Freeway”. In 2009, rapper Freeway was briefly signed to Cash Money Records. However, he eventually reconnected with Jay-Z, his longtime collaborator, and joined forces with Jay-Z’s entertainment organization and record label, Roc Nation.
Under Roc Nation, Freeway released his album “Think Free” in 2018. This partnership marked a significant milestone in Freeway’s career, allowing him to continue his musical journey with the support and resources provided by Roc Nation.
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What happened to the Freeway Arm?
In an interview, Philadelphia rapper Freeway opens up about his battle with kidney failure and the dialysis treatments he undergoes three times a week. He points to the area on his arm where he receives treatments, explaining how his main vein has been moved from the bottom to the top. The rapper said that in 2015, during a routine examination, he was diagnosed with kidney failure, which led to emergency surgery.
Adjusting to the dialysis treatments was challenging at first, especially when he was trying to sleep, as he describes the vibrations and strange feeling in his arm. Recalling the day he was diagnosed, Freeway recalls getting a call from a doctor who urged him to go to the hospital because of abnormal levels of keratin and electrolytes in his body.
Turning to his faith, Freeway sought strength through prayer to Allah. He admits that the dialysis treatments have made a positive difference, stating that he now feels much better compared to when he was unaware of his illness.
Highway Rapper Kidney disease
Leslie Pridgen, widely known as the raw-voiced, truth-telling rapper Freeway, has used his personal journey to make black people more visible in the realm of hip-hop. His rise to fame began in 2001 when he was signed to Jay-Z’s Roc-A-Fella Records at the age of 23. By the time he turned 24, he was already in the top 5 of the Billboard 200, and by his 30s he was performing across the country.
However, in 2010, at the age of 32, Freeway received a life-changing diagnosis of diabetes. His health challenges continued when he was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease five years later, which ultimately led to a kidney transplant in 2019. His clubbing nights were replaced by grueling four-hour dialysis sessions three times a week.
Still, despite his health issues, he remained dedicated to his craft and even had the opportunity to perform for Jay-Z and Beyoncé during their On The Run II tour in New Jersey. This experience resonated deeply with other blacks who looked up to him. Freeway’s journey showed what it means to be a rapper in your mid-thirties and beyond, representing the reality of many black people.
As Freeway continued to share his story, he noticed a deep connection with his fans. They saw their own reflections in his struggles and admired his resilience. Countless individuals reached out to him, expressing how inspired they were by his perseverance. Namely, he estimates that almost half of these people are blacks who found comfort and motivation in their experiences.
Through his involvement with organizations such as the National Kidney Foundation, the organ donor organization Gift of Life, and his own Freedom Thinkers Academy, Freeway has actively shared his health journey with others. His influence remains significant in the hip-hop community, where he is remembered and respected. Now 44, Freeway reflects on the past decade, during which hip-hop matured and embraced the concept of aging.
Professional career on the highway
On February 25, 2003, Freeway marked their entry into the music scene with the release of their debut album titled “Philadelphia Freeway”. The album was created in collaboration with prominent Roc-A-Fella producers such as Just Blaze, Bink! and Kanye West, and showcased the talent of various Roc-A-Fella rappers, many of whom hailed from Philadelphia. This led to the formation of the State Property group, led by Freeway and Beanie Sigel.
The album boasts two successful singles that have become highlights of Freeway’s career up to that point: “What We Do,” featuring Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel, and “Flipside,” featuring State Property member Peedi Crakka. Both songs were masterfully produced by Just Blaze. Namely, “Philadelphia Freeway” was a commercial success, selling more than 500,000 units in the United States.
After the hiatus, Freeway reunited with Jay-Z, this time working under Jay-Z’s entertainment company, Roc Nation. Within this creative space, Freeway released his sixth solo album titled “Think Free” on June 22. The 13-track album features collaborations with respected artists such as Lil Wayne, Lil Uzi Vert, Jadakiss, BJ The Chicago Kid, Fat Joe and Faith Evans, among others.
The release of “Think Free” was accompanied by several singles, including “All Falls Down”, “All the Way Live” and “Blood Pressure”, the latter featuring Lil Wayne. Along with the 2018 release of “Think Free,” Freeway also released the documentary “Think Free,” which offers an intimate video look at his life. The documentary looks at various aspects, including his health journey after being diagnosed with kidney failure, his family life and his music career.
It provides insight into his behind-the-scenes experiences. In fact, Freeway underwent a kidney transplant in February 2019, adding another layer to his remarkable story of resilience and determination. Through his musical endeavors and personal trials, Freeway has left an indelible mark on the industry. His debut album and subsequent collaborations cemented his place within Roc-A-Fella Records and the hip-hop community.
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Source: HIS Education