“Grey’s Anatomy” star Katherine Heigl recently underwent surgery to address the “excruciating pain” she had been enduring. In an Instagram post on Wednesday, the 42-year-old actress shared a series of photos post-surgery, including one showing her wearing a new neck brace.
PHOTO Courtesy | Taylor Hill / FilmMagic
Heigl announced, “Well…I am now bionic!! Two titanium disks now inhabit my neck, and I can probably stand on my head for hours…I’m not going to try it just yet, but give me a few months and I’ll blow your mind.” She also posted an X-ray photo of her neck area.
Expressing gratitude, Heigl thanked the “incredible doctors and care team” who alleviated her pain and provided her with a new lease on life.
She especially appreciated the doctors for taking her pain seriously and for their time and attention in helping her understand what to expect. Heigl singled out Dr. Robert Watkins for his exceptional care.
Katherine’s Neck Surgery
Katherine Heigl surprised her fans by disclosing that she underwent surgery to address a herniated disc, requiring the insertion of two titanium plates into her neck.
Days earlier, Heigl had shared a video of herself and her husband, Josh Kelley, at a hospital without revealing the need for surgery.
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc, occurs when the soft cushion of tissue in the spine is displaced, potentially causing severe pain if it compresses nerves.
In a post-surgery photo, Heigl was pictured sitting up in bed, wearing a neck brace and comfortable knitted pajamas. Injecting some humor, she remarked, “Well… I am now bionic!! Two titanium disks now inhabit my neck, and I can probably stand on my head for hours… I’m not going to try it just yet, but give me a few months and I’ll blow your mind!!”
Expressing gratitude, the former “Grey’s Anatomy” star thanked the doctors and care team for relieving her excruciating pain and granting her a pain-free life.
She commended their exceptional talent and expertise in their care during her surgery and recovery, emphasizing the comfort and care they provided.
Heigl concluded by acknowledging the apprehension associated with surgery and hospital stays and expressed profound appreciation for the staff’s efforts in making her feel comfortable and well-cared for.
Support from Fans
Many of Katherine’s fans showed support for the actress, with several drawing comparisons to her character, Dr. Izzie Stevens, on Grey’s Anatomy.
One fan commented, “Dr. Izzie Stevens can help you!!!” Another fan jokingly asked, “Did Dr. Meredith Grey do your surgery?”
However, most fans simply extended their well wishes to the actress.
One fan expressed, “So glad you are feeling better already. You even make a neck brace look glam my friend. I love your doctors and care team so much! Rest up!” Another fan wished Katherine a speedy recovery, accompanied by a flexing arm emoji.
Katherine’s Family
Katherine, a devoted mother of three, is sure to receive care from her children during her recovery. However, she made a surprising revelation about a potential fourth child.
The Firefly Lane star initially planned to expand her family with a fourth child, alongside her two adopted daughters and one biological son. However, this changed with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Katherine disclosed to Parents magazine that while she and Josh initially felt the need for another child to complete their family, their perspective shifted during the pandemic. “I am very content with my three!” she affirmed.
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