Model Bella Hadid has been at the forefront of the fashion industry, gracing the covers of top magazines and working with renowned brands. However, behind the glamorous facade, Bella has been battling Lyme disease, a chronic illness that has severely impacted her health for years.
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Bella Hadid’s journey with Lyme disease began when she was just 16 years old. This tick-borne illness has caused her severe joint pain, anxiety, brain fog, extreme tiredness, and a host of other symptoms. Her mother, Yolanda Hadid, also suffers from Lyme disease, as well as her younger brother, Anwar Hadid. Despite her outward appearance of beauty and success, Bella has openly shared her struggles with the disease, highlighting the importance of not judging someone based on their outward appearance.
Throughout her battle with Lyme disease, Bella has been vocal about her health journey on social media. She has shared glimpses of her experiences, from extended hospital stays to receiving IV treatments while working on photoshoots. Bella’s openness about her condition has shed light on the challenges faced by those living with chronic illnesses, inspiring others to speak out about their own struggles.
In addition to the physical symptoms, Lyme disease has also affected Bella’s career aspirations. As a child, she had dreams of pursuing a career in equestrian sports, but her diagnosis forced her to pivot towards modelling. Despite this setback, Bella has remained resilient and determined to continue pursuing her passions, even as she navigates the challenges of living with a chronic illness.
Bella’s mother, Yolanda, has been a pillar of strength and support for her daughter throughout her health journey. In a heartfelt Instagram post following Bella’s hospitalization in September 2025, Yolanda praised Bella for her courage and resilience in the face of adversity. She highlighted the ongoing struggles and setbacks that Bella has faced since her diagnosis, acknowledging the unseen pain and challenges that come with living with Lyme disease.
The Hadid family’s experience with Lyme disease has been a shared journey. Yolanda revealed in 2015 that both she and Anwar Hadid had also been diagnosed with the illness. This shared experience has strengthened their bond as a family and propelled them to advocate for greater awareness and research into Lyme disease, with Yolanda vowing to find a cure for her children.
Despite the challenges posed by Lyme disease, Bella has remained determined to prioritise her health and well-being. In August 2023, she shared that after undergoing “intense treatment” for over 100 days, she had finally achieved a sense of wellness. However, just two years later, Bella found herself back in the hospital, highlighting the unpredictable nature of chronic illnesses and the importance of ongoing support and treatment.
Bella Hadid’s journey with Lyme disease serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength required to navigate life with a chronic illness. Her openness about her struggles has resonated with many, offering a glimpse into the reality of living with a condition that is often unseen. Despite the challenges she faces, Bella continues to inspire others with her courage and determination in the face of adversity.