Riverdale star Lili Reinhart is speaking out about her struggle with chronic illness, sharing her journey through one of the most challenging years of her life.
In a recent interview with Self, the 28-year-old actress revealed she had been diagnosed with interstitial cystitis, a chronic disorder that causes inflammation and irritation of the bladder or bladder wall. The condition, which often impacts a person’s quality of life, can be difficult to diagnose and manage.
Following the interview, Lili took to Instagram to offer her fans a deeper glimpse into her journey, posting a series of photos from her time in treatment. Among them was an image taken in a doctor’s office in Germany, where she had initially sought care for what doctors believed to be a bladder infection or UTI. She also shared screenshots of text messages in which she described experiencing symptoms like hair loss and frustration from meeting with multiple doctors.
“I’m just in misery,” she wrote in one text, capturing the toll the undiagnosed condition had taken on her.
In her post’s caption, Lili reflected on her experience: “I feel it’s important to show an honest glimpse at what last year was like for me when dealing with my health issues. Being diagnosed with interstitial cystitis while simultaneously searching for answers about a mysterious autoimmunity/inflammatory disease made 2024 the hardest year of my life.”
Lili also revealed the personal motivation behind her decision to speak up. “I was inspired to talk about this after my grandmother was ignored by doctors for months when exhibiting clear symptoms of cancer,” she wrote. “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.”
Her post carried an important message about advocating for personal health, a lesson she learned firsthand through her journey. “The most important thing I have taken away from this experience is the absolute need to advocate for your own health,” she emphasized. “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. ❤️🩹”
Lili’s openness has struck a chord with fans, many of whom have applauded her for shedding light on the challenges of living with chronic illness and navigating the often-complicated healthcare system.
We hope Lili continues to find healing and receives the care she needs moving forward.
