Home/Tennis

via Getty

via Getty

A chronic illness is a huge blow to anyone’s life. To the life of a sports player, a chronic disease could end a career. Venus Williams is one player who went through such a situation. In 2011, Williams received the unfortunate diagnosis of Sjogren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease. She had been experiencing some symptoms since 2004 but did not get checked for seven years. She has been speaking out in support of individuals going through Sjogren’s ever since and even did on her Instagram story recently.

Venus Williams speaks up on Sjogren’s syndrome

Sjogren syndrome is an autoimmune disease with symptoms such as dry eyes and dry mouth as the most common identifiable trait.  Venus was given the unfortunate diagnosis of Sjogren’s in 2011. The symptoms first came in the form of fatigue and shortness of breath. As per her report in Prevention, she said that she was confounded by the issue as it kept getting worse. She reached a stage where she couldn’t play tennis properly.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

via Getty

Williams has been speaking out in support of people who have been diagnosed with Sjogren’s in their lives. With empathy, Williams is doing her best to spread awareness of the disease as well.

Read more – ‘A Stumbling Block for Her’ – Serena Williams’ Mighty Sacrifice for Sister Venus When She Was Diagnosed With an Autoimmune Disease

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

She recently shared a post on her Instagram story which aims to uplift individuals suffering from the autoimmune disorder. She added a motivational caption that stated, “Never stop fighting for your health 🌟“. This is not the first time that Queen V has tried to spread a message of hope. She has done so quite often. 

Venus Williams shares a message of hope

The seven-time grand slam champion is doing her part to make sure the world knows the people suffering through Sjogren. World Sjogren’s Day falls on 23rd July, and Williams makes sure to do her part for the day diligently. Last year, Williams shared a post made by the Sjogren Foundation on her story

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Watch this story – 42-Year-Old Venus Williams Relishes the Best Impulsive Decision of Her Life That happened 16 Years Ago – ‘I Love Him Already..’

The post encouraged people afflicted with Sjogren to come forward and share their stories with the world. Sharing their story would ensure that there is greater empathy and a better understanding of the condition. Venus Williams is attempting to inspire people in areas besides tennis and will make great strides here as well.