Evangeline Lilly, known for her roles in *Lost* and *Ant-Man and the Wasp*, has shared a concerning health update after a recent accident in Hawaii. On January 2, 2024, Lilly revealed on Instagram that she has been diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury following a fainting episode during which she fell face-first onto a boulder.
In her announcement, Lilly stated, “Verdict’s in… I do have brain damage from my (traumatic brain injury).” She expressed her relief at understanding that her cognitive decline is not solely due to peri-menopause but acknowledged the challenges ahead in addressing the injury. Lilly described that brain scans indicated widespread impairment, with “almost every area in my brain functioning at a decreased capacity.”
Focus on Recovery and Understanding
Despite the daunting diagnosis, Lilly remains committed to her recovery process. She emphasized the importance of comprehending the full extent of her injury before embarking on an arduous journey towards rehabilitation. “But now my job is to hit the bottom of that with the doctors and then embark on the hard work of fixing it,” she said, acknowledging her reluctance but also her determination to tackle the challenge.
This incident in Hawaii was not an isolated event for Lilly. She has a documented history of unexplained fainting spells that began in her childhood. In a May 30, 2023, essay on Substack, she discussed experiencing “‘absent’ and fainting spells since I was a little girl,” which led to initial evaluations for epilepsy. Eventually, doctors diagnosed her with hypoglycemia without formal testing, which she later found to be an inadequate explanation as her glucose levels did not align with that diagnosis.
Lilly noted that her blackout episodes were often concerning, with her husband, Norman Kali, observing that she appeared lifeless during these occurrences. The uncertainty surrounding her condition has been a source of frustration for her, but she has learned to adapt and prioritize her well-being.
A Shift Towards Rest and Gratitude
In light of her recent health challenges, Lilly made a conscious decision to slow down and prioritize rest during the latter part of 2023. She reflected on this change, stating, “I think this was the calmest, most restful Christmas holiday I have had, maybe since I had children.” This period of relaxation has allowed her to feel a sense of gratitude and appreciation for life.
In her message to fans, she expressed, “Feeling extraordinarily grateful and blessed to be able to play one more day, one more year on this beautiful living planet.” Lilly’s candid update not only sheds light on her personal health struggles but also serves as a reminder of the importance of self-care and recovery amidst life’s challenges.
As she navigates this difficult journey, Lilly’s resilience and commitment to understanding her condition resonate with many who face similar health hurdles. Her openness about her experiences encourages dialogue about brain injuries and the importance of seeking help and understanding in the face of adversity.
