Famous People with Addison's Disease
Addison's disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare condition in which the body's adrenal glands do not produce enough of certain hormones. These hormones are important for regulating blood pressure, body temperature, and other essential functions. Although it is a rare condition, many famous people have been diagnosed with Addison's disease.
John F. Kennedy
The 35th President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, was diagnosed with Addison's disease in 1947, when he was only 30 years old. He suffered from various ailments throughout his presidency, but managed to maintain a busy public schedule and even lead the country during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Kennedy was able to keep his condition out of the public eye, and it was not revealed until after his death.
Rudyard Kipling
The well-known author and poet Rudyard Kipling was diagnosed with Addison's disease in 1899, when he was only 36 years old. Despite his illness, he continued to write and publish works such as The Jungle Book and The Man Who Would Be King. He eventually succumbed to the disease in 1936, at the age of 70.
Neil Diamond
The popular singer and songwriter Neil Diamond was diagnosed with Addison's disease in the mid-1980s. Despite his diagnosis, he continued to write and perform music, releasing his popular album Hot August Night II in 1986. He is now an advocate for those living with the condition, and encourages people to get tested if they think they may be suffering from it.
Florence Nightingale
The famous nurse and humanitarian Florence Nightingale was diagnosed with Addison's disease in 1854, when she was only 25 years old. She continued to work and serve her patients until her death in 1910, at the age of 90. Nightingale is now considered to be one of the most influential figures in modern nursing.
Paula Abdul
The popular singer and dancer Paula Abdul was diagnosed with Addison's disease in 2000, at the age of 37. Despite her diagnosis, she continued to pursue her career and released her album Head Over Heels in 2004. She is now an advocate for those living with Addison's disease, and encourages people to get tested if they think they may be suffering from it.