A recent example of a celebrity keeping their illness a secret is Georgia Frontiere, the Rams owner, who died at 80 of breast cancer. Her illness was kept a secret by family members and team officials, according to her wishes.
Battling disease can be difficult enough without having to worry about the extra attention and unwanted press that this kind of news can bring. Deciding to reveal an illness or a deeply personal issue is not only scary, it can leave one feeling vulnerable.
It might seem obvious why a celebrity or public figure facing this decision would choose not to reveal a major illness. In addition to the unwelcome press, there are more reasons why a public figure might choose not to reveal their illness.
For one, they likely don’t want anyone to see them as sick. They want people to see their work, not their disease. In addition, going public with an illness can be a career-ender, so many choose to keep their battles private.
Despite the difficulties in mentioning a serious illness to the public, much good can come from revealing it.
Raising awareness is a positive by-product of speaking publicly about a disease. It can also help to encourage those at risk to get screened.
Another example: Lance Armstrong, who just won his 7th Tour de France race, shed light on testicular cancer, even while his cancer had spread to his lungs and brain.
Why do some celebrities choose to reveal their illnesses? I believe it’s because the act of revealing is purifying and restorative. The end-result is often clarity and a new purpose.