When sports nutritionist Jackson Peos entered a Bali hospital for routine digestive surgery in June, he never imagined he’d emerge with a profound new perspective on life and a harrowing tale of survival. The 30-year-old Perth native’s Jackson Peos Bali blood transfusion experience became a testament to human kindness when 28 strangers stepped forward to save his life.
What began as a simple procedure to address gastrointestinal issues transformed into a life-threatening emergency that would test every aspect of his resilience. This is the story of how a fitness expert’s battle with severe thrombosis reshaped his understanding of vulnerability, community, and the fragility of life.
The Making of a Fitness Entrepreneur
Jackson Peos built his reputation as a competitive bodybuilder, boxer, and rower while pursuing his PhD in Clinical & Sports Nutrition at the University of Western Australia. His bodybuilding journey began during his undergraduate years, where he completed a BSc in Sports Science, Exercise & Health, followed by an Honours degree in Exercise Physiology.
Jackson Peos, sports nutritionist
His academic work focuses on directing the first randomised controlled trial investigating the effects of intermittent versus continuous dieting on fat loss, muscle retention and muscle performance in resistance-trained athletes. This research has positioned him as a leading voice in evidence-based fitness approaches.
The Perth-based sports nutritionist has worked with over 100 clients remotely, specialising in body composition optimisation and exercise performance through nutrition strategies. His expertise spans competitive bodybuilding, online physique coaching, and fitness retreat leadership.
A Routine Procedure Goes Wrong
Living in Bali where he operated as a remote nutritionist and ran fitness retreats, Jackson had been experiencing gastrointestinal issues for several weeks, including stomach aches, bloating, and frequent bowel movements.
A colonoscopy revealed three haemorrhoids, leading to a recommended laser haemorrhoidoplasty procedure. What should have been a straightforward treatment quickly became a medical emergency when complications arose during surgery.
Although transfusions had started, medical staff remained cautious due to the risk of ongoing internal bleeding. He spent seven days bedridden, with limited movement and unable to eat. The severity of his condition meant that standard blood supplies weren’t sufficient for his critical O-negative blood type needs.
The Bali Blood Transfusion That Saved a Life
Faced with their son’s life hanging in the balance, Jackson’s family made a desperate appeal on social media for urgent blood donations. The response was extraordinary – within just a few hours, 28 people had come forward to donate their O-negative blood.
The donors included fellow Australians living in Bali, tourists, and locals who responded to the social media plea. This remarkable Bali blood transfusion story highlighted both the vulnerability of expatriates in medical emergencies and the incredible power of community support.
The blood transfusions began to stabilise Jackson’s condition. His vital signs improved, and he was monitored closely in intensive care for 24 hours while the team increased his haemoglobin levels.
Understanding Thrombosis: A Growing Health Challenge
Jackson’s experience reflects a broader health concern affecting thousands of Australians annually. Blood clots affect 30,000 Australians every year and are potentially fatal if left untreated, accounting for about 10% of hospital deaths.
More than 17,000 Australians annually experience an embolism, with incidence increasing as the population ages. Groups at higher risk include:
- Older adults
- Cancer patients
- Immobilised individuals
- Post-surgical patients
- Long-distance travellers
Athletes face unique risks, with blood levels of clotting protein factor VIII increasing with exercise, though the fibrinolytic system that dissolves clots is also more active in people who exercise regularly.
Recovery and Renewed Purpose
Jackson describes his seven-day ordeal as life-changing: ‘The room was grey, silent, no windows, no TV, four IV lines in my arms, and not even being able to move my hands. I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy, but I was grateful to be breathing.’
Jackson Peos admitted to the hospital after surgery
His recovery involved gradually rebuilding his strength and confronting the psychological impact of near-death experience. The event has reinforced his commitment to evidence-based health practices and deepened his appreciation for the fitness community that supported him.
Continuing the Mission
Today, Jackson continues his work as a sports nutritionist and researcher from his base in Bali. He leads annual training camps that combine educational workshops, high-intensity training sessions, and curated nutrition programs.
His research continues to push boundaries in understanding optimal approaches to fat loss and muscle retention for athletes. The experience has added a profound dimension to his understanding of health, recovery, and human resilience.
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Lessons in Community and Resilience
Jackson says he’s been given a second chance at life, and it’s a chance he won’t waste. His experience has not only changed his perspective on healthcare but also reinforced his faith in human kindness.
The story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding blood donation needs, especially for rare blood types like O-negative, which can save lives but require specific matches for recipients.
