CNN's Gloria Borger Opens Up About Her Epic Battle Against Chronic Illness
CNN commentator and journalist Gloria Borger has recently spoken out about her arduous journey battling chronic illnesses, including multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain syndrome. In an exclusive interview, Borger shared her struggles with CNN correspondent Alisyn Camerota, offering an unfiltered look into the world of those dealing with chronic illnesses.
A 60-year-old mother of two, Gloria Borger has been in the media spotlight for over three decades, with a remarkable career marked by her sharp commentary on CNN, CBS, and other major networks. Despite her seemingly perfect life, Borger revealed that she has been secretly battling a trio of chronic conditions that have drastically impacted her quality of life. From chronic fatigue and debilitating pain to unpredictable bouts of weakness, Gloria Borger's story sends a clear message to the millions of Americans suffering from chronic illnesses: you are not alone.
A Journey of Survival and Resilience: Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis
Around 2010, Gloria Borger started experiencing unusual symptoms that puzzled medical professionals: chronic fatigue, numbness, and tingling sensations in her hands and feet. Initially, she was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and while treatment helped manage her symptoms, they persisted. It wasn't until 2012, after enduring a lengthy series of unexplained relapses and remissions, that Borger received the life-altering diagnosis: multiple sclerosis (MS).
"It was like a punch in the gut," Borger said, recalling the moment of her diagnosis. "Multiple sclerosis has been the biggest challenge of my life so far... The unpredictability, the uncertainty, it's like walking on a minefield every day." Multiple sclerosis, a chronic autoimmune disease, affects nearly 1 million Americans, causing nerve damage, vision problems, and cognitive difficulties.
Borger's MS diagnosis led to a whirlwind of treatment options, from immunomodulatory therapies like interferons to disease-modifying therapies like ocrelizumab (Ocrevus). After struggling with side effects, Borger settled on ocrelizumab, which significantly reduced her symptoms and stabilized her condition. Her decision was a crucial turning point in her journey with MS.
The Dark Side of Chronic Pain Syndrome: A Hidden Epidemic
In 2018, Gloria Borger received a second diagnosis: chronic pain syndrome. This chronic condition, which affects up to 100 million Americans, refers to persistent and debilitating pain that cannot be explained by any underlying medical condition. The diagnosis was like a double hit: not only did Borger have to manage her MS symptoms but also the unpredictable pain.
"It's like a constant shadow that follows you everywhere, a constant reminder that you're broken and that your body is not your own," Borger said, describing the sensation of chronic pain. "It's a battle you wage every single waking moment." Borger uses a combination of pain-relief medications, meditation, and cognitive behavioral therapy to manage her chronic pain syndrome.
Fibromyalgia's Silent Suffering: Breaking the Stigma
Additionally, Borger has been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, another chronic condition characterized by widespread muscle pain and sensitive areas on the body. For many years, Gloria was hesitant to accept her diagnosis, fearing she might be perceived as "faking" her symptoms.
"I know it's stigmatized, and people think it's in your head," Borger said candidly, alluding to the misconceptions people have about the condition. "Fibromyalgia is a serious condition, and it's not just about pain and sensitivity. It affects my nervous system, my brain, and my entire body."
Breaking Down Barriers: Raising Awareness and Promoting Education
Gloria Borger's courageous decision to speak openly about her chronic illnesses has sparked conversations that are long overdue. According to a 2020 Gallup poll, approximately 25 percent of millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) have experienced chronic pain, while about 23 percent have been told by a doctor that they have a chronic condition.
"Awareness and education are vital in understanding and addressing the complexities of chronic illnesses," Borger emphasized. "Many people I talk to have chronic illnesses and are too ashamed to seek help or too scared to open up about their symptoms. We need to break down the stigmas associated with chronic illnesses, and encourage others to raise their voices and find their strength."
A Message of Hope and Resilience: Gloria Borger's Inspiring Journey
Gloria Borger's decision to share her personal journey with chronic illnesses is an unflinching portrayal of the trials and challenges faced by millions of Americans. Despite facing debilitating chronic symptoms, Borger has emerged from the shadows, unapologetically embracing her vulnerabilities and breaking the mold of silence surrounding chronic illnesses.
"I'm not defined by my diagnoses. I'm still a mom, a journalist, a sister, and a friend," Borger declared with conviction. "I want my story to inspire others to find their strength, their resilience, and their courage in the face of uncertainty and adversity. Together, we can break the stigma surrounding chronic illnesses and create a world where everyone has access to support, resources, and understanding."
