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In a move surprising even the most die-hard Star Wars fans, Daisy Ridley recently revealed she’s been battling Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition that ramps up the thyroid gland’s activity.
Best known for wielding a lightsaber as Rey Skywalker, Ridley confessed that her seemingly random hot flashes, fatigue, and racing heartbeat turned out to be more than just everyday stress. Now under a doctor’s care, she’s speaking out so others can recognize the signs and get the help they need.
The Unexpected Link Between Star Power and an Overactive Thyroid
Ridley isn’t the only headline-maker juggling life in the spotlight and thyroid complications. Lucia Stafford, a Canadian runner preparing for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, discovered she had Graves’ disease back in high school. Both women faced symptoms like extreme weight loss, anxiety, and constant fatigue—big red flags given their active lifestyles. In Stafford’s case, surgery provided relief, and she’s since returned to training with newfound energy.
What Exactly Is Graves’ Disease?
For the uninitiated, Graves’ disease happens when the body’s immune system goes on overdrive, causing the thyroid to kick up hormone production. Common side effects include shaky hands, shortness of breath, and hair loss. As if that weren’t enough, people often struggle with jittery nerves and unpredictable mood swings. It can affect men and women at any age, though it’s typically diagnosed in women over 20.
Hollywood, Health, and Hope
Despite its scary-sounding name, Graves’ disease can be treated and managed—through medication, lifestyle adjustments, or even surgery. Ridley, who initially brushed off her symptoms as typical Hollywood burnout, now credits her medical team for helping her get her condition in check. Meanwhile, Stafford’s success story underscores the importance of listening to your body: sometimes taking a step back (and even sitting out a competition or two) paves the way for a stronger future.
Breaking the Stigma
Ridley’s public admission isn’t just a personal milestone; it’s a rallying call. By shedding light on her experience, she’s reminding fans that real heroes don’t just fight intergalactic battles—they conquer invisible health challenges too. Whether it’s a star athlete gunning for Olympic gold or a beloved actress commanding the big screen, sharing these journeys shows everyone facing chronic conditions that they’re not alone—and that help, treatment, and brighter days truly do exist.
