Bella Hadid Opens Up About Lyme Disease and Medical Anxiety

Supermodel Bella Hadid has candidly shared her experiences with Lyme disease, shedding light on the emotional toll of living with a chronic illness. On September 29, 2023, Hadid took to Instagram to express her struggles, reposting a quote that encapsulated her journey: “When your chronic illness is chronic illness-ing and someone says ‘it’s always something with you’ like…yes…one might say the illness is…chronic.”

In her post, Hadid tagged influencer Alexandra Wildeson, who had shared a thought-provoking piece titled “The Duality of Life with Chronic Illness.” Hadid added her own commentary, stating, “The medical anxiety is soooooo real. Thank you for putting every one of my thoughts and daily situations into one swipe. The truuuuuth!”

The 28-year-old model, who was diagnosed with Lyme disease in 2013, has been vocal about her health challenges. Last month, she appeared at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, struggling while carrying what she described as 50-pound wings.

In September, Hadid shared distressing images from her hospital bed, where she was connected to an IV. These photos depicted her in moments of vulnerability—covering her mouth in distress and her forehead with a wrap, visibly flushed. Other images showed her in a Pikachu onesie and enjoying a late-night pizza dinner in her hospital room.

Hadid also expressed her feelings of isolation, admitting, “I’m sorry I always go MIA I love you guys,” alongside her September 17 photo series. Her mother, Yolanda Hadid, commented supportively, “❤️ Lyme warrior,” while her sister Gigi Hadid offered encouragement, stating, “I love you! I hope you feel as strong and good as you deserve, soon!!!!!!”

Yolanda Hadid, who has also battled Lyme disease, posted her own heartfelt messages about Bella’s condition. She shared images from Bella’s hospital visit, including one where she cradled her daughter in bed. In another poignant photo, Bella was wrapped in wet towels and hooked to an oxygen machine, surrounded by medications to manage her symptoms.

“Watching my Bella struggle in silence has cut the deepest core of hopelessness inside me,” Yolanda wrote. She emphasized the challenges of understanding the “invisible disability” of chronic neurological Lyme disease, stating that her pain pales in comparison to witnessing her daughter’s suffering. Yolanda praised Bella’s “bravery” and highlighted her resilience despite numerous setbacks, asserting that Bella is a “survivor” who will continue to fight for better days.

Yolanda first revealed her children’s diagnoses during an emotional speech at the Global Lyme Alliance Gala in 2015, where she vowed to advocate for their health. “This award is for Anwar and Bella,” she declared. “This is my token and my promise to you that I will not allow you to live a life of pain and suffering.”

The candid discussions from the Hadid family not only bring attention to Lyme disease but also to the broader implications of living with chronic illness, particularly the mental health challenges that accompany it. Bella’s openness about her experiences resonates with many who face similar battles, encouraging dialogue and understanding surrounding chronic health conditions.