Jess Impiazzi has opened up in deeply personal fashion about the toll lupus has taken on her life, sharing candid images of her skin flare-ups, hair loss, and the emotional weight that came with the diagnosis.
The pregnant reality star, 37, reflected on what she described as a “life-changing” journey since learning she had the chronic autoimmune condition in 2023, admitting there was a period when she felt completely overwhelmed by what lay ahead.
In a heartfelt social media post, the former Ex On The Beach star revealed that the illness affected far more than just her physical health.
She said the diagnosis shook her confidence and left her feeling as though her identity was slipping away.
For someone used to pushing through challenges and staying active, Jess admitted there came a point where she simply could not keep going in the same way.
Alongside a makeup-free selfie, she shared that painful rashes had spread across her face and body, while swollen joints and arthritis symptoms added to the daily struggle.
Beyond the visible symptoms, she said the hidden effects were quietly wearing down her confidence.
Jess explained that there was a stark contrast between the woman who once felt comfortable in front of cameras and on set, and the version of herself who later felt too unwell and self-conscious to even step out for everyday tasks.
She also revealed that she lost almost half of her hair during the battle, describing the anxiety and uncertainty as emotionally draining.
In another candid moment, she admitted that despite trying steroids and other medications, relief only came in brief moments.
At her lowest, she said she was frightened, in pain, and unsure how to keep moving forward.
Still, the turning point came when she began rebuilding her routine around self-care.
Jess shared that she had to embrace a new lifestyle, one focused on fresh meals, better sleep, fitness, and creating a stable, supportive environment around herself.
Posing in another photo with her partner, Sam Bird, she reflected on how much fear she once carried about the future, especially around whether she would be able to have the family she had always dreamed of.
Now expecting her first child in May, Jess said the pregnancy has brought a new sense of pride in her body and its ability to adapt through adversity.
She also acknowledged that pregnancy while living with lupus comes with its own challenges, something she hinted she may speak more about later.
The pregnancy follows what she described as a long and emotional IVF journey.
Jess previously admitted she had fears that early menopause and her health condition could make motherhood difficult.
Speaking about the fertility process, she said it was far from easy, particularly the emotional strain of the treatment itself, including hormone tablets and injections.
Despite the pain and uncertainty that marked much of the journey, her story now carries a strong message of resilience, hope, and the quiet strength of learning to live differently.
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