Actress Bijou Phillips has announced she is back in the hospital and urgently searching for a kidney donor. The star of “Almost Famous” shared an emotional message detailing her ongoing health challenges, which have forced her to undergo dialysis once again. This plea comes after her previous kidney transplant in 2017, which she received from a close friend.
Turning to Instagram on October 3, 2023, Phillips expressed her heartfelt request for help, emphasizing her roles not just as an actress, but as a “friend, sister, aunt,” and most importantly, “a single mother” to her 11-year-old daughter, Fianna Phillips. She shared personal photos of their time together, underscoring her desire to be present for her daughter as she faces this critical health issue.
Health Complications and Previous Transplant
In her Instagram post, Phillips provided insight into her medical history, revealing that she was born with underdeveloped kidneys. This condition led her to spend her first three months in the neonatal intensive care unit on dialysis. After receiving a kidney transplant in 2017, she cherished what she described as “eight precious years” with her daughter. Unfortunately, she has encountered several complications since the transplant, including a battle with the BK virus, which resulted in both cellular and antibody rejection of the organ.
Phillips is currently under the care of Dr. Anjay Rastogi at UCLA, where she is undergoing treatment. In her appeal, she urged individuals to consider becoming living donors, stressing that “time is of the essence” for her and her family. The emotional weight of her situation is palpable, as she seeks to extend her time with her loved ones.
Background and Support
When Phillips first required a kidney transplant in 2017, a spokesperson informed PEOPLE that she was following a low-stress routine and adhering to a vegan diet prior to starting dialysis. Within two months, she underwent a transplant that was described by her then-husband, Danny Masterson, as “100% successful.” Her current health struggles highlight the unpredictability of medical conditions, even after what was considered a successful surgery.
As she navigates this challenging chapter, Bijou Phillips’s call for help serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of organ donation. Her story resonates not only within the entertainment community but also among those who understand the gravity of health challenges and the vital role of support networks.
The urgency of her message seeks to inspire action among potential donors, emphasizing the potential impact of their generosity. With her heartfelt plea, Phillips continues to advocate for her own health while shedding light on a critical issue that affects many in similar situations.
