Pop star and actor Justin Timberlake recently opened up about his struggles with Lyme disease, revealing how it affected his performances during the ‘Forget Tomorrow World Tour’, according to a report by Variety.
Timberlake Shares Health Update on Instagram
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Timberlake shared a series of pictures from his tour and explained the health challenges he has been silently facing. His announcement came just as he wrapped up his tour in Istanbul on July 30, which began over a year ago in Vancouver.
Fans Noticed Something Was Off
Many fans had recently commented on how Timberlake seemed tired and low-energy during shows, especially on the international leg of the tour. Now, he has explained that his lack of energy and nerve pain were actually symptoms of Lyme disease.
“Living with this can be relentlessly debilitating”
Opening up about his diagnosis, Timberlake wrote, “I’ve been battling some health issues, and was diagnosed with Lyme Disease—which I don’t say so you feel bad for me—but to shed some light on what I’ve been up against behind the scenes. If you’ve experienced this disease or know someone who has—then you’re aware: Living with this can be relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically.”
He Thought About Cancelling the Tour
Timberlake admitted that when he was first diagnosed, he was shocked and considered cancelling the tour. However, he said that despite the pain and exhaustion, his love for performing helped him make the decision to continue.
He explained, “When I first got the diagnosis, I was shocked for sure. But, at least I could understand why I would be onstage and in a massive amount of nerve pain or, just feeling crazy fatigue or sickness. I was faced with a personal decision. Stop touring? Or, keep going and figure it out. I decided the joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I’m so glad I kept going.”
Why He Chose to Speak Up Now
Timberlake also said he was initially unsure about going public with his condition. He had been taught to keep personal matters private but now feels that sharing his journey might help others.
He said, “I was reluctant to talk about this because I was always raised to keep something like this to yourself. But I am trying to be more transparent about my struggles so that they aren’t misinterpreted. Sharing all of this with the hope that we can all find a way to be more connected. I’d like to do my part to help others experiencing this disease too.”
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