Bella Hadid shares heartfelt update on ‘chronic disease’ after 15 years of suffering
People are flooding to social media in support of supermodel Bella Hadid after she shared an update on her 'chronic disease'.
Bella Hadid was first diagnosed with Lyme disease - a bacterial infection spread to humans by an infected tick - in 2012.
If not treated early, the disease can lead to pain and swelling in joints, nerve problems, memory problems, heart problems and difficulty concentrating, according to the NHS.
"A few people with Lyme disease go on to develop long-term symptoms similar to those of fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome," it adds.
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The 26-year-old supermodel took to Instagram on Sunday, 6 August to open up about her battles with the disease, sharing several images of herself receiving treatment and hospital care, alongside pictures of her medical records, revealing the extent of her illness.
The first shows a report from when she was 17 in 2013, listing symptoms such as 'atigue, attention deficit disorder, depression, sleep disorders, headaches, nightmares, night sweats and PMS.
It notes Hadid 'feels ill all the time' and was home-schooled as a result of her exhaustion and depression.
In the caption, Hadid reflected: "The little me that suffered would be so proud of grown me for not giving up on myself.
"Thankful to my mommy for keeping all of my medical records, sticking by me , never leaving my side, protecting, supporting , but most of all, believing me through all of this."
A medical report from 2014 shows Hadid experienced a 'severely high tissue toxicity of 16' - the scale being 1-21 - and that her body contained a series of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungus and parasites.
Hadid goes on to note how 'confusing' it is to be 'sad and sick' but also with so many 'blessings' and such 'privilege' and 'opportunity' around her.
She reassured fans she is 'okay' and they 'do not have to worry' and that she also 'wouldn't change anything for the world,' on her journey to becoming 'finally healthy'.
A 2016 report shows Hadid having undergone a test to 'detect the presence of targeted microbial DNA for the causative agent of Lyme disease and common tick-transmitted con-infections'.
Out of the 14 microbes listed, Hadid tested positive for eight.
The supermodel reflected on the universe as working in 'the most painful and beautiful ways,' noting she decided to post this insight into her ongoing health problems so anyone else who's 'struggling' knows 'it will get better'.
Hadid adds: "I promise. take a step away, stay strong, have faith in your path, walk in your truth and the clouds will start to clear up.
"I have so much gratitude for and perspective on life , this 100+ days of Lyme, chronic disease , co infection treatment, almost 15 years of invisible suffering, was all worth it if I’m able to, God willing, have a lifetime of spreading love from a full cup, and being able to truly be myself, For the first time ever."
And people have flooded to Hadid's post in support.
Her sister, fellow model Gigi Hadid, wrote: "I love u I am so proud and happy for u !"
Model Winnie Harlow said: "God bless you on your journey focusing on Yourself is so important!! love u."
The supermodel also took the opportunity to thank the 'incredible company's' that she works for, alongside her 'supporters' and agents too.
The post concludes: "I love and appreciate you more than I can ever express.
"Thank you to my genius Dr, and her INCREDIBLE team of nurses. I love you SO much!!!
"I’ll be back when I’m ready. I miss you all so much. I love you all so much."
Topics: Celebrity, Health, Life, Mental Health, US News
Poppy Bilderbeck