Kenan Thompson, the beloved veteran of Saturday Night Live, has recently come forward with a new health diagnosis, shedding light on his battle with a condition that impacted his daily life. Thompson, 46, shared exclusively with PEOPLE that he had been silently suffering from symptoms of heartburn that significantly disrupted his routines. The actor and comedian disclosed that he was diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), commonly known as GERD, and is now aiming to inspire others to seek medical assistance if needed.
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Thompson’s health ordeal began over two years ago when he started experiencing distressing heartburn, particularly after consuming acidic foods. The discomfort escalated to the point where it affected his performances on SNL, with issues like hoarseness and sleepless nights becoming commonplace. Despite trying to manage his symptoms with dietary adjustments and over-the-counter remedies, Thompson found no lasting relief. Eventually, he realised the severity of his condition and sought medical help, leading to an official diagnosis of GERD.
GERD is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions in the United States, although it often goes undetected. Thompson expressed his lack of awareness regarding the medical term before his diagnosis, showcasing the importance of understanding and addressing health concerns promptly. Following his diagnosis, Thompson was prescribed Voquezna, a groundbreaking treatment for GERD. The actor immediately experienced relief, prompting him to partner with Phathom Pharmaceuticals for the ‘GERD IS NO JOKE’ campaign to raise awareness about the condition and its management.
By collaborating with Phathom Pharmaceuticals, Thompson is leveraging his comedic talent to bring attention to GERD through a cooking show skit titled “Kick Some Acid Cooking Show”. Humour has been Thompson’s tool to make a serious topic more approachable, drawing from his SNL experience to navigate challenging conversations with light-heartedness. Thompson’s openness towards discussing his health journey, coupled with his partnership for the campaign, aims to empower individuals to prioritise their well-being and seek proper medical assistance when needed.
Reflecting on his current state of health, Thompson expressed gratitude for feeling significantly better and adopting a healthier lifestyle. His advocacy for seeking medical help and destigmatising health issues serves as an inspiration for many facing similar challenges. Throwing light on his journey with GERD, Thompson’s story is a reminder of the importance of addressing health concerns promptly and seeking appropriate medical care for a better quality of life.
As Thompson continues to raise awareness about GERD through his campaign and personal anecdotes, he stands as a beacon of hope for those navigating health challenges. His resilience, coupled with his commitment to promoting well-being, exemplifies the power of seeking support and managing health conditions proactively. Thompson’s journey towards healing and empowerment serves as a testament to the impact of speaking up about health struggles and advocating for one’s own wellness.