Bella Hadid’s Brave Battle: Mom's Heartbreaking Note on Chronic Lyme Disease
Bella Hadid's Battle with Lyme Disease: A Tale of Resilience and Devotion
The supermodel's mother, Yolanda Hadid, has opened up about her daughter's struggles with chronic neurological Lyme disease in a heart-wrenching post on social media. The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills veteran shared intimate photos of Bella getting treatment at a hospital overseas, sparking concern among fans.
Yolanda's emotional post began by acknowledging the difficulties of living with an "invisible disability" like Lyme disease. She revealed that she had stopped sharing her personal story several years ago to focus on her own healing and not absorb negative opinions about her journey. However, she was determined to find a cure for Bella and herself, even after 15 years of searching.
"As you will understand watching my Bella struggle in silence has cut the deepest core of hopelessness inside me," Yolanda wrote. "The pain of watching my baby suffer is unbearable." She emphasized that she takes responsibility for her health and vowed to share their Lyme journey with the world once they achieve a breakthrough.
Yolanda's heartfelt note was addressed specifically to Bella, calling her "relentless" and "courageous" for fighting against chronic disease. The mother of three acknowledged the darkness and pain Bella has endured since her diagnosis in 2013, stating that she didn't truly live during those years, but instead learned how to exist with a "paralyzed brain."
"You are not alone, I promise to have your back every step of the way," Yolanda reassured Bella. "We will continue to fight for better days together." She described Bella as a "survivor" and ended her post with a loving message: "I love you so much my badass Warrior."
Bella herself updated her Instagram followers on Wednesday, revealing that she was getting treatment for Lyme disease in an overseas hospital. The 28-year-old model shared photos of herself receiving IVs and oxygen tubes, sparking fan concern. She captioned the post, "Sorry I always go MIA, I love you guys," leaving little doubt about her current state.
Bella's sister, Gigi Hadid, quickly responded with a supportive message: "I love you! Hope you feel as strong and good as u deserve, soon!!!!!!" Other celebrities, including Kourtney Kardashian, Candice Swanepoel, Helena Christensen, and Elle Macpherson, also showed their support.
The photos Bella shared gave fans an unvarnished look at her treatment process. One image featured her with an IV attached to her neck, while another showed her lying on a bed in a medical setting with a stuffed animal on her lap. The model appeared to be receiving a blood transfusion, and the clear fluid connected by tubes to her upper arm was a stark reminder of her condition.
Bella's followers were touched by her post, with many expressing their support and admiration for her bravery. One fan wrote, "Take care and heal, the world is waiting for Miss Bella Hadid always. Stay strong ❤️" Another supporter commented, "Love you queen, I'm sending positive energy for your healing process!"
However, not all of Bella's followers were aware that they too might be suffering from Lyme disease. One fan shared a personal story: "Would love to know what you are doing for your Lyme? I have it as well and it would be great to share to help us all out❤️❤️❤️❤️."
Bella has been open about her struggles with Lyme disease in the past, revealing that she didn't know what it was like to wake up without bone pain or brain fog. Her mother's post and her own Instagram update have brought attention to this invisible illness, raising awareness about its symptoms and treatment.
The Prevalence of Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by the bite of an infected black-legged tick. According to the CDC, it can be treated with several weeks of oral antibiotics if caught early, but left untreated, the infection can spread to the joints, heart, and nervous system, leading to serious health complications.
Some notable celebrities have battled Lyme disease in recent years, including Justin Bieber, who revealed his diagnosis on Instagram in 2020. Country legend Shania Twain had to retrain her voice after developing dysphonia as a result of Lyme disease during her 2003 Up! tour. Avril Lavigne spent five months bedridden due to the disease in 2015.
Yolanda Hadid herself has been open about her own struggles with Lyme disease remissions, which began years ago when she was misdiagnosed with ME. Her daughter Bella's diagnosis in 2013 marked the beginning of a long and arduous journey for both mother and daughter.
What is Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged tick. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and include fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. A distinctive rash called erythema migrans occurs in approximately 80% of infected people.
The CDC notes that if left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to serious health complications, including arthritis, facial or Bell's palsy, heart palpitations, and problems with short-term memory. The good news is that it can be treated effectively with antibiotics if caught early.
Bella's story serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness about Lyme disease and its symptoms. Her mother Yolanda's dedication to finding a cure for both of them is an inspiration to fans around the world, demonstrating the power of love and resilience in the face of adversity.
As Bella concluded her Instagram post, "I'll be back when I'm ready... I miss you all so much. I love you all so much." Her journey with Lyme disease may be a long one, but with the support of her loved ones and fans, she is determined to spread love from a full cup, living life on her own terms.