The tennis icon Serena Williams recently opened up about her health journey after having a grapefruit-sized cyst removed from her neck. She took to TikTok to share her experience, revealing that she discovered a lump on her neck back in May.
Understanding brachial cleft cysts
In her TikTok video, Williams explained that after noticing the lump, she promptly visited her doctor for an MRI, where she was diagnosed with a brachial cleft cyst. According to the Cleveland Clinic, these cysts are small fluid-filled sacs that can appear under the skin on the side of the neck. While they can occur at any age, they are most commonly found in children. Although typically benign, doctors often recommend surgical removal to prevent complications.
Williams expressed her initial feelings of being “mortified” by the lump. Initially, doctors advised against surgery, but as the cyst continued to grow, further testing, including a biopsy, was conducted. Thankfully, the results showed that the cyst was noncancerous, but doctors recommended removal due to its size and potential risks of infection or leakage.
The surgery and recovery
In her video, Williams candidly shared her experience in the hospital, showing the scarring on her neck. She recounted the discomfort of the procedure and expressed gratitude for the skilled medical team that assisted her.
Post-surgery, Williams was seen with a bandage on her neck and a face mask, but her spirits remained high. The video concluded on a lighthearted note as she visited an American Girl doll store with her daughter, Olympia. “Mommy is suffering but mom has to keep showing up,” she joked, showcasing her resilience and dedication as a mother.
Gratitude and family support
In her TikTok caption, Williams reflected on her journey, “I am feeling so grateful and fortunate everything worked out, and most of all I’m healthy,” she stated. She also shared her thoughts on missing significant events, including the Glamour Magazine Woman of the Year awards and Rafael Nadal’s retirement, emphasizing that health always comes first.
Her husband, Alexis Ohanian, showed his support by commenting, “You’re such a fighter. And such a great mama,” highlighting the couple’s strong bond as they navigate parenthood together. The couple shares two daughters, Olympia and Adira, who are undoubtedly a source of strength for Williams during her recovery.
Williams’ journey serves as a reminder of the importance of health and the power of resilience. As she continues to recover, her openness about her experience may inspire others to prioritize their health and seek medical advice when necessary. With her unwavering spirit, Williams proves that even in challenging times, one can find joy and gratitude in life.
Williams’ candid sharing of her health journey highlights the importance of public figures being open about their medical experiences. This transparency can help reduce stigma around certain health conditions and encourage others to seek medical attention when needed.
Her story also underscores the unpredictable nature of health issues, even for world-class athletes. It serves as a reminder that regardless of one’s level of fitness or success, health challenges can affect anyone.
The support Williams received from her family, particularly her husband, emphasizes the crucial role of a strong support system during health crises. This aspect of her story may resonate with many who have faced similar challenges with the help of loved ones.
