Christina Applegate's daughter, Sadie, shares how her own diagnosis of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) has given her a deeper understanding of her mother's multiple sclerosis (MS).
Christina Applegate's daughter, Sadie, has shed light on her own health journey and how it has helped her relate to her mother's battle with multiple sclerosis.
In a recent episode of Applegate's podcast, "MeSsy," Sadie, 13, revealed that she has been diagnosed with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). According to The Cleveland Clinic, POTS is a condition that causes symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, fast heart rate, and chest pain when a person stands up or sits upright.
Christina Applegate's Daughter Understands Her Mom's MS Battle Thanks to Her Own Health Issues
Sadie explained that she has experienced similar symptoms to her mother, who was diagnosed with MS in 2021. She said, "When my mom's like, 'I'm in pain right now. I'm having tremors.' If I didn't have [POTS], I probably would be like... I don't know what you're talking about. But I actually have tremors from POTS."
Sadie's experience with POTS has made her more sympathetic to her mother's health struggles. She said, "It's definitely a lot easier to understand what she's going through when I have something I'm going through as well."
Christina Applegate's Daughter Understands Her Mom's MS Battle Thanks to Her Own Health Issues
Sadie also explained that she suffers from misophonia, an extreme sensitivity to certain sounds. She said, "My two worst are breathing and chewing."
Applegate shared that she found unique ways to help Sadie understand the pain of walking. She said, "She made us put on socks with sand."
Christina Applegate's Daughter Understands Her Mom's MS Battle Thanks to Her Own Health Issues
Despite her mother's hesitations, Sadie is eager to help Applegate, even when her assistance isn't always welcomed. She said, "Every time we go to a concert, she always is like, 'You cannot push my wheelchair, Sadie, you're going to run into a wall.'"
Applegate admitted that her daughter is skilled at pushing her wheelchair, but she hesitated to allow her help because she feared Sadie might let go of it on a ramp.
Although Sadie understands her mother's struggles, Applegate said she feels "incredibly guilty" for not being able to do more for her daughter. She said, "I don't ever want you to feel that I'm not capable to be your protector, your mother, you know, I love you. I want to make you food. I want to bring it to you. I want to do all the things and I do when I can. And I feel incredibly guilty when I can't."
Applegate's openness about her MS diagnosis has resonated with her fans and fellow celebrities. She has received support and encouragement from many, including fellow actress Selma Blair, who also has MS.
Applegate's journey has also inspired her daughter to be more understanding and empathetic towards others who are struggling with chronic illnesses.
