Actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler recounts a harrowing near-death experience she faced during a challenging period in her battle with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Jamie-Lynn Sigler, known for her iconic role in "The Sopranos," has bravely shared a deeply personal near-death experience that occurred amidst her ongoing battle with multiple sclerosis (MS). In a recent episode of her "MeSsy" podcast with co-host Christina Applegate, Sigler opened up about a life-threatening episode that left her on the brink of death.
"A little less than a year ago now is when I went to India and I lived in this ashram and I felt so awakened and connected and peaceful," Sigler recounted. Upon returning home, she experienced severe complications from a surgery that led to sepsis, a life-threatening infection. "I got sepsis and was in the hospital and almost died. I never told anybody this. A year ago I was in a hospital this much away from death."
Sigler's diagnosis with MS at age 20 marked a turning point in her life. For years, she kept her condition a secret, navigating the challenges alone. In 2016, she chose to share her journey publicly. The actress's revelation of her near-death experience adds another layer to her inspiring story of resilience and determination.
Reflecting on the period following her hospitalization, Sigler acknowledged the profound impact it had on her emotional well-being. "2023 was my year of grieving," she said. "I had never in my life been more sad, felt more low." Seeking support, she turned to therapy and embraced the importance of allowing herself to fully experience her emotions.
"I had an inability to escape it," Sigler said. "I had to sit in it. I would scream in pillows, I would cry to girlfriends. I reached out, I sat by myself, I got a therapist. I did all of these things I had never really done before and went through this process that was absolutely necessary."
Through her journey, Sigler realized the transformative power of facing her pain head-on. She emphasized the importance of seeking help and allowing oneself to feel the full range of emotions that arise during difficult times. "You have to bring it to the light," she said. "You have to allow yourself to feel that stuff."
As a mother of two young boys, Sigler has also spoken openly about the ways MS affects her parenting. She shared the challenges of her body not keeping up with the physical demands of motherhood, but also expressed gratitude for the lessons she has learned through her experiences.
"I really don’t know how I would have found the person that I am today without it. And I’m so grateful for it," Sigler said. "But I feel myself, like, leveling up and moving forward as a human being, but my body not following me, and it’s really, that’s my struggle now."
Sigler's story serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience that can be found even in the darkest of times. Her unwavering spirit and commitment to healing inspire hope and encouragement for others facing their own challenges. Through her platform and personal experiences, Sigler continues to raise awareness about MS and empower those affected by the disease.
