Grammy and Oscar winner Lady Gaga (aka Stefani Germanotta) not only revealed she had fibromyalgia, but went so far as to make a documentary about living with fibro. Her actions created a wave of empathy and validation throughout the fibro community. “Wow. Her, too?”

Three things happen for us when a celebrity opens up about a diagnosis that they share with us.

First, they help to destigmatize the disease. Suddenly, we see our friends and family changing their attitudes toward our condition, and even toward us.

Second, we feel more hope and more inspired in our own life. Knowing that a celebrity is facing the same day to day struggles, while having to maintain the veneer of stardom fans expect, we are more endeared toward them. Especially when they use their voice to bring visibility to fibromyalgia.

Finally, we feel empowered and more confidence by the will of celebrities to step forward about their condition. With so much scrutiny, celebrities who take control of their narrative about what it means to live with fibromyalgia offer a roadmap for how we might do the same.

Whether famous or not, the public acknowledgment of one’s disease is a brave act in the face of the stigma of chronic disease. As fibromyalgia awareness spreads, acceptance soon follows.

As fibromyalgia awareness spreads, acceptance soon follows. Is there a notable person who has inspired you? How do you feel about celebrities discussing their condition? Share in the comments below or post on MyFibroTeam.