Justin Timberlake, the US singer, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted through tick bites.
The illness, caused by Borrelia bacteria, can affect the skin, joints, heart, and nervous system, with symptoms ranging from fever and fatigue to nerve pain and severe exhaustion.
In a post via Instagram, the Grammy-winning singer shared his diagnosis publicly for the first time, explaining that he wanted to shed light on the challenges he had been facing behind the scenes.
Timberlake, who recently wrapped up his two-year world tour, described the condition as “relentlessly debilitating,” both physically and mentally.
“Well, as these two incredible years come to an end and I look forward to the future, I wanted to write something from the heart. It’s not an easy task to try to contextualize the whirlwind of touring — but, I will try,” Timberlake wrote.
“This has been the most fun, emotional, gratifying, physically demanding, and, at times, grueling experience. I have been doing this for 30+ years (which feels crazy to say) and have given all that I have to this.
“I could not have done it without my family, friends, The TN Kids, and all of your support.
“As many of you know, I’m a pretty private person. But as I’m reflecting on the tour and festival tour – I want to tell you a little bit about what’s going on with me.
“Among other things, 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.
“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.
“Not only did I prove my mental tenacity to myself but, I now have so many special moments with all of you that I will never forget.”
Timberlake emphasized that he wasn’t sharing his story for sympathy but to raise awareness and foster a connection with others battling the same condition.
He said he hopes his openness will help destigmatize the conversation around chronic illnesses.
“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,” Timberlake added.
“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.”
