Justin Timberlake has revealed his “relentlessly debilitating” battle with Lyme disease.
Lyme disease is a serious illness usually contracted after being bitten by a tick. It can cause a rash and symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue and muscle and joint aches.
The singer, 44, shared his diagnosis in an emotional statement on Instagram on Thursday as he marked the end of his Forget Tomorrow world tour.
Timberlake explained that he’s been battling a “massive amount of nerve pain”, “crazy fatigue” and “sickness” onstage, after facing backlash for cancelling shows and giving seemingly lacklustre performances.
“Among other things, I’ve been battling some health issues, and was diagnosed with Lyme disease - which I don’t say so you feel bad for me – but to shed some light on what I’ve been up against behind the scenes,” he wrote.
“If you’ve experienced this disease or know someone who has — then you’re aware: living with this can be relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically.”
The SexyBack singer went on: “When I first got the diagnosis I was shocked for sure.
“But, at least I could understand why I would be onstage and in a massive amount of nerve pain or, just feeling crazy fatigue or sickness. I was faced with a personal decision. Stop touring?
“Or, keep going and figure it out. I decided the joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I’m so glad I kept going.
“Not only did I prove my mental tenacity to myself but, I now have so many special moments with all of you that I will never forget.”
The 10-time Grammy winner added: “I was reluctant to talk about this because I was always raised to keep something like this to yourself.
“But I am trying to be more transparent about my struggles so that they aren’t misinterpreted.”
Timberlake is among several musicians who have shared their struggles with Lyme disease, including Justin Bieber, Avril Lavigne, and Shania Twain.
The disease can last many months or even years. It can be successfully treated with antibiotics.
“I honestly don't know what my future is onstage, but I'll always cherish this run! And all of them before! It's been the stuff of legend for me,” Timberlake wrote.
He ended his post thanking his wife, Jessica Biel, and their two sons, Silas and Phin, saying “nothing is more powerful than your unconditional love. You are my heart and my home. I’m on my way”.
There has been an upsurge in its prevalence across the US in recent years due to warmer summers that encourage tick populations to thrive.
Timberlake wrapped his Forget Tomorrow tour in Turkey on Wednesday after more than 120 shows around the world.
The former *NYSNC star cancelled and postponed multiple shows throughout the tour, citing health issues including bronchitis and laryngitis.
He ultimately cancelled the last show of the US leg of the tour in Ohio due to the flu in February.
Some fans blasted the singer for cancelling at short notice, with one writing: “Canceling [because] of being sick is 100 per cent understandable. Canceling 10 minutes before the doors were to open is unacceptable.”
Another added: “The show was canceled at 7:30 and the show was supposed to start at 8:00, I’m sorry if you have the flu you would’ve know before 1/2hour before the show starts. There were little kids standing in line that was devastated that you canceled. Shame on you.”
Others defended the Suit and Tie singer, penning: “Take care of yourself Justin, I know you are heartbroken the tour ended this way. We love you so much, never forget that.”
