What's Happening?
Supermodel Bella Hadid recently posted a series of photos on Instagram showing her connected to medical equipment, indicating her ongoing battle with Lyme disease. Her mother, Yolanda Hadid, expressed deep emotional distress over her daughter's condition, describing it as an 'invisible disability' that is difficult to explain or understand. Bella Hadid has been dealing with Lyme disease since her diagnosis in 2013, and her mother praised her daughter's relentless courage in fighting the illness despite numerous setbacks. Lyme disease, a bacterial infection often spread by tick bites, affects tens of thousands of Americans annually, with symptoms including fever, headache, fatigue, and skin rash. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) discourages the use of the term 'Chronic Lyme Disease,' as the cause of prolonged symptoms is not currently known.
Why It's Important?
Bella Hadid's public disclosure of her health struggles brings attention to Lyme disease, a condition that affects many but is often misunderstood. Her openness may encourage others suffering from similar conditions to seek support and raise awareness about the challenges faced by those with chronic illnesses. The CDC's stance on 'Chronic Lyme Disease' highlights the ongoing debate within the medical community regarding the long-term effects of Lyme disease and the need for further research. This story underscores the importance of understanding invisible disabilities and the impact they have on individuals and their families.