Celebrities Battling Lupus: Inspiring Stories of Courage and Advocacy

Beautyepic

#1. Selena Gomez 

The American pop singer and actress was diagnosed with lupus in 2015. She took a break from her career in 2016 for treatment and underwent a kidney transplant in 2017. 

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow

#2. Seal

This English singer and songwriter developed discoid lupus at the age of 23, causing scars on his face. Despite this, he has been in remission for years and advocates for lupus research and awareness. 

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow

#3. Lady Gaga 

Although she never experienced symptoms, Lady Gaga tested borderline positive for lupus in 2010. She has a family history of the disease and emphasizes the importance of self-care. 

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow

#4. Tony Braxton 

Since 2011, this Grammy award-winning singer has openly struggled with lupus but remains active in her career and advocacy efforts. 

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow

#5. Nick Cannon 

The American rapper and actor began experiencing symptoms in 2012 and has documented his journey with lupus in a YouTube series.

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow

#6. Kristen Johnston

Diagnosed with lupus myelitis at age 46, this actress undergoes treatment with chemotherapy and steroids.

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow

#7. Trick Daddy

This American rapper was diagnosed with discoid lupus and has chosen to forgo Western medicine for treatment.

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow

#8. Shannon Boxx

Diagnosed with lupus in 2007 while playing for the U.S. National Team, this Olympic soccer player advocates for disease awareness.

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow

#9. Maurissa Tancharoen

This television producer/writer, actress, and singer experiences chronic severe flare-ups affecting her kidneys, lungs, and central nervous system.

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow

#10. Ray Walston

Actor Ray Walston passed away from lupus complications in 2001, six years after being diagnosed with the disease.

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow

#11. Paula Abdul

The dancer, choreographer, and singer uses social media to raise awareness about lupus.

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow

#12. Charles Kuralt

Famous TV newscaster Charles Kuralt died from complications of systemic lupus in 1997 at the age of 62.

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow

#13. Dale Dedrick

Paralympic Equestrian Dale Dedrick was diagnosed with lupus during her time at the University of Michigan and has experienced multiple health challenges as a result.

Image: Instagram

Next

Off-White Arrow