Supermodel Bella Hadid recently opened up about her ongoing battle with Lyme disease by sharing heartfelt hospital selfies and a candid update on her health, breaking her silence after being missing in action (MIA) for some time.

Bella’s hospital photos and emotional message

In a vulnerable Instagram post, Bella shared intimate photos from her hospital bed showing her receiving intravenous treatment and wearing an oxygen mask. She apologized for her absence from the public eye, captioning her post, "I'm sorry I always go MIA I love you guys." Her mother, Yolanda Hadid, commented with a touching tribute, calling her daughter a "Lyme warrior." Bella’s sister, Gigi Hadid, also posted supportive messages expressing love and strength.

Lyme disease: A painful and chronic ordeal

Bella has battled Lyme disease for over a decade, an infection caused by tick bites that, if untreated, can develop into a chronic condition. Her health struggles include severe fatigue, joint pain, neurological symptoms, and mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. Her mother, Yolanda, who has also openly discussed her own fight with Lyme disease, shared how deeply painful it has been to watch Bella suffer quietly through the illness.

Lyme disease symptoms often start with a distinctive "bull's-eye" rash, fever, joint aches, and may progress to more debilitating problems like neurological disorders and heart complications if untreated. Bella’s experiences highlight the invisible suffering many patients endure, dealing with both physical and emotional tolls.

Family support and hope

Yolanda Hadid praised Bella's relentless courage and described the family’s ongoing fight for better days together. The tribute emphasised the strength Bella shows despite the "countless setbacks" caused by the disease. Bella’s openness has brought much-needed attention to Lyme disease awareness and the challenges of living with a chronic illness.