NEED TO KNOW
- Justin Timberlake shared that he was diagnosed with Lyme disease
- The singer said the disease caused a “massive amount of nerve pain” — a disclosure that comes amid criticism of his lackluster tour energy
- Timberlake said he decided to continue touring despite “crazy fatigue” and “sickness,” and said, “I am trying to be more transparent about my struggles so that they aren’t misinterpreted”
Justin Timberlake has been diagnosed with Lyme disease.
which he said has caused a “massive amount of nerve pain” — a disclosure that comes after the singer has gone viral for what fans complain are lackluster performances.
“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,” the “SexyBack” singer shared in his Instagram story on July 31. “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.”
The announcement comes as the singer, 44, ends his two-year Forget Tomorrow World Tour, during which he has been criticized for lackluster performances,
In his post, he said he was “shocked for sure” to receive his diagnosis. “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.”
Transmitted from the bite of an infected tick, Lyme disease can, at first, cause flu-like symptoms like headaches, joint pain, fatigue, or a fever, per the Cleveland Clinic. It’s often diagnosed by a rash resembling a bullseye around on the tick bite. Later symptoms can include facial paralysis, brain fog, numbness, swollen joints, and nerve damage.
The ‘Nsync alum said he struggled with the decision to continue touring, but shared he he decided to “keep going and figure it out.” As he explained, “the joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I’m so glad I kept going.”
“I was reluctant to talk about this because I was always raised to keep something like this to yourself,” Timberlake continued. “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.”
He concluded with a photo of him hugging his son Silas — shot from behind — and thanked his wife Jessica Biel and kids for their support in his post. “To Jess, Silas, and Phin… nothing is more powerful than your unconditional love. You are my heart and my home. I’m on my way.”
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
Read the full article here
