Katy O’Brian, the star of “Love Lies Bleeding,” isn’t just your typical Hollywood actor but also a bodybuilding enthusiast and a martial arts teacher. Despite battling severe Crohn’s disease, she managed to transform her physique and bring her character, ‘Jackie,’ to life on the big screen.

In a recent interview with Self, O’Brian shared her journey of living with Crohn’s, a condition known for causing symptoms like frequent diarrhea, abdominal pain, and extreme fatigue. She revealed how her symptoms initially went unnoticed until they began interfering with her daily life and work.

She had faced ups and downs since 2020, “It honestly came as somewhat of a relief, because it explained why I’d been feeling so terrible,” O’Brian explained, reflecting on her diagnosis. “At that point, I started taking medication and modifying my diet, both of which have made a huge difference in keeping me healthy.”

Despite the challenges posed by her condition, O’Brian was determined to pursue her passion for acting and martial arts. However, things took a turn for the worse when she started filming “Love Lies Bleeding.” Her doctor recommended immediate surgery to remove scar tissue caused by Crohn’s, jeopardizing her role in the film.

“My doctor said I needed surgery immediately. I was freaking out, thinking there was no way I could have surgery and still play Jackie,” O’Brian recalled. “Then I met with a surgeon who said I could wait until filming was complete to have the surgery, as long as I wasn’t in pain.”

With the support of her medical team and the filmmakers, O’Brian underwent surgery after wrapping up filming. Despite a challenging recovery process, she remained grateful for the successful outcome and her ability to continue pursuing her dreams.

Listen to your body, says Katy O’Brian

Throughout her journey, O’Brian emphasized the importance of listening to one’s body and being kind to oneself. She shared insights into managing her condition, including paying attention to trigger foods and prioritizing rest when needed.

“Before I got my diagnosis, I relied on caffeine to get through my bodybuilding workouts, which I didn’t realize was exacerbating my GI issues,” O’Brian admitted. “I’ve worked really hard since getting my diagnosis to listen to my body and take a day off or an easy day when I need to.”

Despite the obstacles she faced, O’Brian’s resilience and determination shone through. Her portrayal of Jackie not only showcased her talent as an actor but also served as an inspiration for others living with autoimmune conditions like Crohn’s.

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