Mikayla Matthews Says She’s ‘Barely Surviving’ as She Reveals the Name of Her Chronic Illness

**Mikayla Matthews Opens Up About Chronic Illness and Life as a Mother**

Mikayla Matthews, a prominent figure from “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” has courageously shared her ongoing battle with chronic illness through her social media platforms. Known as the “MomToker,” Matthews has been transparent about the difficulties she faces while raising her four children and managing her health condition.

In a recent series of Instagram Stories, Matthews addressed questions from her followers about her daily struggles balancing the demands of motherhood alongside her health issues. When asked how she copes with the pressures of being a full-time working mother, Matthews candidly admitted, “I don’t.” She elaborated that surviving day-to-day is often a monumental task but emphasised the importance of self-care. “Take time for yourself,” she advised, urging her followers not to forget their personal hobbies and interests.

Furthering the conversation, a follower inquired about the specifics of her chronic illness. Matthews revealed that she is suffering from Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), a condition attributed to prolonged exposure to environmental toxins, specifically mold. She described the illness as a debilitating factor in her life, exacerbated by what she termed as “mold poisoning,” which has led to “the worst health flare” she has experienced in over a year and a half.

CIRS, according to the National Library of Medicine, results from immune dysregulation and manifests in a plethora of symptoms affecting multiple organ systems. The condition is often associated with exposure to mould and damp environments, leading to chronic health struggles for those suffering from it.

Following the airing of the latest season of “Mormon Wives,” Matthews has been vocal about the toll CIRS has taken on her well-being. In her Instagram stories, she expressed the broader implications of the disease, stating that it has indeed “ruined just everything in my body.” From skin and hair issues to problems related to the liver and hormones, the disease affects her on multiple fronts.

In her efforts to relate to her audience, she recounted past experiences where her illness severely impeded her social interactions. “I had like a year and half where I couldn’t look people in the eyes,” she confessed, explaining how her condition has led to significant emotional distress and avoidance of social events. Despite the challenges posed by her health, Matthews is determined to show up when possible, hoping to encourage others facing similar trials that life need not come to a halt in the face of adversity.

Matthews, who is married to Jace Terry and is a mother to four children, shared that her struggles with chronic illness have also intensified feelings of guilt associated with her role as a mother. “My mom guilt has eaten me alive,” she confessed, pointing out the complexities of managing her health while being present for her children.

In her journey, Matthews first disclosed her battle with chronic illness in September 2024, highlighting that she was “fighting for her life” while filming the initial season of the reality show. She had previously experienced eczema since childhood but suspected that her later symptoms, which led to the diagnosis of CIRS, started following her breast augmentation in March 2023.

She described the emotional turmoil related to her physical insecurities, acknowledging that it has been challenging to feel confident while coping with significant health hurdles. Yet, she expressed a desire to promote self-acceptance, despite the difficulties that continue to affect her.

As Matthews continues to document her journey, she seeks to foster a sense of community among those enduring similar challenges. Her openness serves not only as a personal coping mechanism but also as a beacon of support for those navigating their health battles. With her followers looking to her for inspiration and understanding, Matthews’ willingness to share her story contributes to an important conversation about chronic illness, motherhood, and resilience.