"I Was Also Diagnosed. It F*cking Sucks": Millions Of People Are Applauding Lili Reinhart For Opening Up About Her Newly Diagnosed Chronic Illness
In addition to being a great actor, Lili Reinhart is also an advocate for mental health and body image.
She is often praised for her vulnerability in discussing her personal struggle with depression, and just last year, she opened up about being diagnosed with alopecia.
Now, Lili has opened up on her Instagram and in an interview with Self magazine about additional health challenges she has been going through.
@lilireinhart / instagram.com
In the caption of her post, Lili said, "Being diagnosed with interstitial cystitis while simultaneously searching for answers about a mysterious autoimmunity/inflammatory disease made 2024 the hardest year of my life."
"I was inspired to talk about this after my grandmother was ignored by doctors for months when exhibiting clear symptoms of cancer — and it was only after her own strength and advocation for herself that she was given a blood test that diagnosed her. And by then, the cancer had spread."
"The most important thing I have taken away from this experience is the absolute need to advocate for your own health. Do not let a doctor gaslight you or diminish your pain. I hope the men & women out there struggling to find answers feel even the slightest bit seen by my experience. ❤️🩹," she concluded in her post.
@lilireinhart / instagram.com
Interstitial cystitis is also known as “painful bladder syndrome.” Despite it being relatively common, affecting up to 7.9 million people in the US, it is often misunderstood and dismissed.
Dr. Emily C. Von Bargen, a urogynecologist and medical adviser to vaginal health brand Cheeky Bonsai, explained to BuzzFeed that symptoms can include pain, pressure, and frequent urination. The sensation may mimic a urinary tract infection but persists despite treatment, with no specific infection detected.
And because the symptoms can be so similar to a UTI, people can often be misdiagnosed — you can read about one woman's yearlong journey trying to find a diagnosis here.
@lilireinhart / instagram.com
Immediately, people who are also fighting chronic illnesses came forward in support.
They also openly shared their own experiences with interstitial cystitis.
Everyone showed up with compassion and praise for Lili who — once again — has used her platform to spread awareness and create unity.
You can read Lili's full interview with Self magazine here, and you can find more information about interstitial cystitis here.
