Social media has become a common platform for many influential celebrities to share their daily life, career updates, and to promote their upcoming projects. However, in recent years it has taken a more vulnerable turn as more and more celebrities open up about their physical and mental health. Not only does this bring celebrities down to a more relatable level it also spreads awareness about diseases audiences might not have been aware of previously. 

In 2015 actress and singer songwriter Selena Gomez opened up about her Lupus diagnosis. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease caused when the immune system attacks it own tissues. For Gomez this led to a kidney transplant as a part of her treatment in 2017.  

Kiera Chanthavongsor (10) is a longtime fan of Selena Gomez and is currently watching her new show. 

“I remember when Selena Gomez was battling Lupus. She had a kidney transplant, and it was kind of scary. I didn’t even know Lupus existed until she opened up about her disease.” 

Following her diagnosis there was public uncertainty on this would affect her ability to perform in her career. Gomez suffered anxiety and depression that stemmed from diagnosis and ended up taking a break and going to a rehabilitation facility to help her deal with the disease. As another form of treatment Gomez also endured chemotherapy which is often prescribed to patients with more serious cases.  

After months of rehab and recovery, Gomez stepped back into the spotlight and was able to give a speech at the Lupus Research Alliance’s Breaking Through Gala in New York City, where she opened up about her journey and concluded her speech with a sentiment to the younger generation. 

“I’d like to see the day when all young women can realize their dreams of life without a Lupus,” Gomez said, “This is why I am committed to the Lupus Research Alliance. So that none of us are alone, especially the young women that I have grown up with and heard many, many stories.” 

Hailey Bieber, model, and niece of actor Alec Baldwin recently revealed she developed a blood clot that moved to her brain. According to a vascular neurologist this is a type of health problem occurring in younger people today rather than the older crowd it was thought to affect previously. After suffering stroke like symptoms Bieber was taken to a hospital where they discovered a very small blood clot on her brain which led to a small lack of oxygen, which her body was then able to pass on its own, leading to her recovery within hours according to people.com.  

Katelyn Shackleford (11) has followed Hailey Bieber since she married Justin Bieber  

“I was shocked when she announced she had a blood clot on her brain. I didn’t realize such a serious health condition affected people so young.” 

While Bieber’s medical scare was unfortunate, she was able to make a full recovery and in the process open a door for conversation for more serious medical issues in a younger generation.  

“Although, this was definitely one of the scariest moments I’ve ever been through, I’m home now and doing well, and I’m so grateful and thankful to all the amazing doctors and nurses who took care of me!”