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Missy Elliott Diagnosed With Graves' Disease

Posted Jun 23rd 2011 10:20AM by Theo Bark
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Missy Elliott has revealed that she is suffering from Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder for which there is no known cure.

Though she has kept it quiet for years, the 'Work It' singer has disclosed that she was diagnosed with the thyroid disease in 2008, after experiencing a frightening loss of muscle control, and has been undergoing treatment since.

"I was [driving and] trying to put my foot on the brake, but my leg was jumping. I couldn't keep the brake down and almost crashed," the Virginia rapper-producer reportedly told People Magazine. "I couldn't write because my nervous system was so bad -- I couldn't even use a pen."

After suffering several other debilitating hyperthyroid symptoms, including mood swings and hair loss, Missy revealed that she turned to radiation treatment, a solution that greatly improved her condition, but cannot cure her of the disease.

"I'm 30 pounds (13.6 kilograms) lighter because I've been exercising," Missy continued. "My thyroid is functioning, so I haven't had to take medication in about nine months. (But) you live with it for the rest of your life."

While Graves' disease is rarely life-threatening, it is not known what causes the disorder, which is five to 10 times more common for women, affecting almost 2 percent of the female population.

On the comeback since her diagnosis, Missy, who turns 40 on July 1, has also announced that she is working on new music with longtime collaborator Timbaland, and will be featured on the June 29 season premiere of VH1's 'Behind the Music,' where she will reportedly further discuss her condition, as well as the sexual abuse she suffered as a child.

*UPDATE: Missy Elliott released this statement to the BoomBox regarding her Graves' Disease diagnosis: "There have been some inaccuracies reported in regards to my diagnosis with Grave's Disease, so I wanted to clear things up. I was diagnosed with Graves' Disease about three years ago but it really hasn't slowed me down at all. I rocked my performance on VH1 Hip Hop Honors' tribute to Timbaland last year. I've written and produced a bunch of Grammy-nominated, #1 hits for artists like Keyshia Cole, Monica and Jasmine Sullivan. I toured the UK, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia. And on top of all that, I'm working on my new album. I feel great. Under my doctor's supervision, I've been off medication for about a year and I'm completely managing the condition through diet and exercise."

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6 Comments

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jbreyes777

Am too diagnosed with Graves Disease with the onset of Hyperthyroidism, tho more commonly with female, but higher % with asian males. I feel your pain Missy...peace...

July 01 2011 at 11:58 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

serranoanglsrrn8

i like misselliot she pretty rapper girl

July 01 2011 at 9:04 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

Sharon

I wish her well with her disease... and a speedy recovery!

July 01 2011 at 6:10 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

Ray Joseph

Missy, my prayers for full recovery. My wife was diagnosed in 1987 along with Lupus. With proper treatment one can live an almost normal life. Please continue research yourself and look at alternative medication for a cure. My love to you. You are so special to us.

June 25 2011 at 8:53 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

jenniferjwoody

I was diagnosed with Grave's disease in 2005. I lost nearly 100 lbs in less than 3 months. I didnt know what was going on with my body. I lost so much weight so quick that it was rumors that i was a crackhead. I also had radio active treatment twice. The anxiety attacks, athritis pain in my joints, osteopenal , my hair was shedding and the shakes in my legs-especially at night. and dont forget the weakening of the eye muscles. But thank God im steady on my meds and i am able to function and go on with my daily life routine. I commend you Missy for sharing your story. when i was first diagnosed i thought i was alone but you will be surprised by how many people live with this condition everyday. Its a struggle sometimes especially the mood swings and the depression but it is something you have to deal with. It gets easy as the days go on. Stay blessed Missy!

June 23 2011 at 2:38 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply

belovedboris

Missy Elliott - you are truly a brave soul. You grace us with your gift of music, inspire us with your strength, and connect us.
I wish you the very best - your spirit shines!

June 23 2011 at 11:15 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply