Model Anok Yai has disclosed her ongoing struggle with a serious medical condition, detailing a recent diagnosis that has significantly impacted her health. On December 19, 2023, the 28-year-old announced that she has been diagnosed with a congenital defect affecting her heart and lungs. This announcement follows her recognition as the 2025 Model of the Year by the Fashion Awards.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Yai expressed the challenges she has faced over the past year. “For the past year I’ve been dealing with this silent battle. I incidentally found out I had a congenital defect overworking my heart and slowly destroying my lungs,” she wrote, accompanied by videos and photos from her hospital stay. Yai described her condition as initially asymptomatic, which later developed into persistent coughing, chest pains, and even episodes of coughing up blood.
Facing the Challenge Head-On
Yai emphasized her determination to maintain her career while searching for the right medical guidance. “I chose to work through this while trying to find the right doctor and the right time. I quickly realized there was never going to be a ‘right time’ – my health would continue to worsen,” she shared. Her experience highlighted a common misconception that one can simply outwork personal health issues.
On the day following her announcement, Yai revealed that she underwent a successful robotic lung surgery performed by Dr. Robert Cerfolio. This minimally invasive procedure is designed to remove diseased lung tissue and surrounding lymph nodes, as explained by the American Lung Association. Yai expressed her gratitude, stating, “I am forever indebted to [Dr. Cerfolio] and his gracious and talented team for giving me more time.”
Gratitude and Recovery
Yai also credited Dr. Harmik Soukiasian and the team at Beverly Hills Concierge Health for their role in diagnosing her condition. She thanked all the doctors and nurses at NYU Langone for their support during her recovery process. “Thank you to my friends and family for being the first thing I saw when I woke up,” she added, underscoring the importance of her support network.
As Yai embarks on her recovery journey, she remains optimistic, concluding her message with, “For now I’m healing … but I’ll be back. See ya ❤️” The fashion community and her fans are rallying behind her, wishing her a swift recovery.
Yai’s candid revelation shines a light on the often-overlooked struggles individuals face with health issues, reinforcing the importance of awareness and timely medical intervention.
