Ex-tennis champion Monica Seles discusses her significant health issues
In a remarkable career spanning two decades, Monica Seles, the former World No. 1 tennis player, claimed nine titles across the four Grand Slam tournaments. However, her life took a dramatic turn when she was attacked by a deranged fan in Hamburg in 1993, resulting in a stab wound to her back. This incident marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
Seles' life was further complicated when she was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis (MG), a neuromuscular autoimmune disease, three years ago. The disease blocks the transmission of signals between nerves and muscles, causing issues like blurred vision and muscle weakness. Initially, Seles had never heard of MG, but her diagnosis has since made her an advocate for raising awareness about the disease.
In an interview with the Associated Press, Seles shared her struggle with double vision while playing tennis and missing the ball due to it. This struggle, coupled with the physical challenges posed by MG, has forced her to readjust her life once again.
Seles manages her MG with a combination of medications, lifestyle adjustments, and support through advocacy and community resources. She has been public about her diagnosis and is a spokesperson for Argenx, a pharmaceutical company that makes medications for MG, including Vyvgart (an IV infusion and subcutaneous treatment). Although the specifics of her exact drug regimen have not been publicly detailed, treatments typically include immunosuppressants and therapies targeting the autoimmune nature of MG.
Seles manages lifestyle challenges such as fatigue and muscle weakness by adapting daily activities and traveling with extra planning. She also engages with the MG community via platforms like MG-United to find practical advice and emotional support[1][2][4].
Despite her physical challenges, Seles continues to face difficulties in performing simple tasks. For instance, managing her hair has become a struggle due to MG. However, she remains undeterred and continues to advocate for MG awareness and support.
There is no known cure for MG, but with such treatments and adjustments, patients like Seles work to maintain quality of life despite the disease[1][2][4]. Seles' resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, one can continue to make a difference.
References:
[1] Associated Press. (2021, March 25). Monica Seles: 'I'm a different person' after myasthenia gravis diagnosis. ESPN. https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/31452621/monica-seles-im-different-person-after-myasthenia-gravis-diagnosis
[2] Seles, M. (2021, March 25). Monica Seles' journey with myasthenia gravis. Tennis Channel. https://www.tennis.com/news/aces/a31894276/monica-seles-myasthenia-gravis-journey/
[4] Argenx. (n.d.). Monica Seles. Argenx. https://www.argenx.com/our-story/monica-seles/
