Bella Hadid Opens Up About Medical Anxiety in Lyme Disease Fight

Supermodel Bella Hadid has candidly shared her experiences of grappling with Lyme disease and the associated medical anxiety that often accompanies chronic illness. On Friday, she took to Instagram to express her frustrations and emotions surrounding her ongoing health challenges. In her post, Hadid highlighted the difficulties of living with a chronic condition, sharing a quote that read, “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.”

Hadid also re-shared a post from influencer Alexandra Wildeson, which discussed “The Duality of life with chronic illness.” She added her own thoughts, stating, “The medical anxiety is soooooo real,” while thanking Wildeson for articulating her daily struggles. This heartfelt message comes after Hadid was observed struggling during the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show last month, where she carried what she described as 50-pound wings.

Bella’s Health Journey

Diagnosed with Lyme disease in September 2013, Hadid has faced significant health challenges over the years. In a series of alarming photos shared from her hospital bed in September, Hadid showcased her reality, appearing hooked up to an IV and visibly distressed. In the images, she is also seen wearing a Pikachu onesie and enjoying a late-night pizza dinner while in the hospital.

On September 17, 2023, she expressed her apologies for being inactive on social media, stating, “I’m sorry I always go MIA I love you guys.” The support from her family has been unwavering during her health struggles. Her mother, Yolanda Hadid, a known advocate for Lyme disease awareness, commented on her post, calling Bella a “Lyme warrior.” Bella’s sister Gigi Hadid also expressed her love and support, wishing her sister strength and recovery.

A Mother’s Heartfelt Support

Yolanda Hadid further documented Bella’s hospital visit on her own social media, sharing emotional images that capture the depth of their bond. In one poignant photo, the former reality star is seen cradling Bella in her hospital bed, while another shows Bella wrapped in wet towels and connected to an oxygen machine. Yolanda described the pain of witnessing her daughter’s struggles, stating, “As you will understand watching my Bella struggle in silence, has cut the deepest core of hopelessness inside me.”

She emphasized the challenges of living with Lyme disease, referring to it as an “invisible disability” that is difficult for others to understand. Yolanda praised Bella’s resilience, noting that she has learned to navigate the complexities of her condition. She concluded her post by reinforcing her daughter’s strength and determination to continue fighting against the illness.

Yolanda Hadid, who has also been diagnosed with Lyme disease, previously highlighted the challenges faced by her children during an emotional speech at the Global Lyme Alliance Gala in 2015. “This award is for Anwar and Bella,” she said, promising to advocate for their well-being and prevent them from a life filled with pain and suffering.

As Bella Hadid continues to address her health issues publicly, her openness fosters awareness about Lyme disease and the broader implications of chronic illnesses. Her journey serves as a reminder of the complexities of health that many face in silence.