It’s been a challenging year for South African actress and businesswoman Sonia Mbele. The Real Housewives of Johannesburg star recently revealed in an exclusive interview with ZiMoja that she has been silently battling with an autoimmune disease.
Mbele, who was admitted to the hospital a few months ago due to an undisclosed illness, shared her journey with the disease during the interview. She explained that she was diagnosed with anemia, a type of autoimmune disease, just before the launch of the third season of Real Housewives of Johannesburg.
In her interview, Mbele candidly spoke about the impact the disease has had on her life. She revealed that she had to make significant changes to her lifestyle, including altering her diet, giving up alcohol, and undergoing regular iron infusions.
“I thought I was just fatigued at first, but further tests confirmed that I have chronic anemia,” Mbele shared.
“Living with this disease has been a challenge, both physically and emotionally. But I’m doing everything I can to manage it and stay positive.”
Anemia is a condition in which the body lacks adequate healthy red blood cells, resulting in iron deficiency. This can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. Mbele’s treatment plan includes iron supplementation, as well as weekly drips and oxygen therapy.
The actress expressed her gratitude towards her family and those who have supported her throughout this difficult time. “I’m incredibly thankful for the love and support I’ve received. It’s been a rough year, but knowing that I have people who stand by me makes a world of difference,” she said.
Autoimmune diseases, such as anemia, occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the body. In the case of anemia, the immune system damages red blood cells, leading to iron deficiency. It is essential for individuals with autoimmune diseases to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their condition.
While Mbele continues to navigate her journey with the autoimmune disease, she remains determined to raise awareness and support others facing similar challenges. Her openness about her struggles serves as an inspiration to many.
