The Dancing With The Stars judge Carrie Ann Inaba was rushed to the hospital after suffering a medical emergency that took place mid-flight.
Inaba Rushed To Hospital
Inaba, 58, took to Instagram on Thursday to reveal that she experienced a sudden health issue while flying to New York City the day before.
“I was on my way to NY for something I am very passionate about. But had a small ‘medical emergency’ on the plane,” Inaba wrote alongside a video of her in an ambulance. “I very suddenly felt quite ill. And while it seemed like food poisoning, I also suddenly broke out into a cold sweat, got dizzy and my arms went numb.”
“Normally I handle most of my health things on my own,” she continued. “Like many people who live with autoimmune disease, I travel with a health tool kit and am prepared for the worst, but this scared me. And while I was locked in the restroom, we were also experiencing turbulence and the flight attendants had been asked to sit in their seats as well. I didn’t want to have anyone else put themselves at risk… but when my arms went numb, it was time to ask for help.”
Inaba later opened up more about this in the comments section.
“I’m always thankful for the moments that scare or challenge me especially with my health,” she wrote. “They remind me that while I often face my health challenges alone, I am not alone. None of us are. The helpers are everywhere.”
Inaba has long been open about her health struggles. Indeed, she is living with Sjogren’s disease, which is an autoimmune disorder that can cause a wide range of symptoms.
Inaba Gives Thanks
Inaba has since issued a statement thanking the flight crew for helping her when she needed it.
“I received some assistance on the plane from the flight crew and a doctor onboard,” Inaba told USA Today. “Which I am very thankful for, and went to the hospital upon landing, as well as received fluids.”
Inaba also thanked the first responders “who treated me with care and respect in a scary moment even when my blood pressure dropped.”
Once she was treated and was given fluids, Inaba was released from the hospital. She is now recovering at her hotel.
“I’m resting up and looking forward to getting back into my advocacy work soon,” she said. “I’m so grateful to the people who took care of me and helped me through such a scary experience.”
Inaba has been a judge on Dancing With The Stars ever since it premiered back in 2005. This summer, she is set to appear at the first “Dancing with the Stars Con 26.” This is a fan convention dedicated to the long-running beloved ABC competition series.
Inaba has always been one of the very best parts of Dancing With The Stars. While it’s sad that she had to go through this health scare, it’s a relief to know that she’s on the mend.
Get well soon, Carrie Ann Inaba!