Alexis Ohanian Opens Up About His Lyme Disease Diagnosis: A Closer Look at His Journey and Public Impact

Alexis Ohanian, the co-founder of Reddit and husband to tennis superstar Serena Williams, recently revealed his unexpected diagnosis with Lyme disease.

At the age of 41, Ohanian shared the news in a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), surprising both himself and his followers. Despite not showing any symptoms, a comprehensive round of medical tests led to the diagnosis, prompting him to take immediate steps toward treatment.

In his candid posts, Ohanian explained that after undergoing extensive health scans and a battery of tests, the Lyme disease diagnosis came as a shock. He pointed out that, although his family has a history of the illness, he had not considered himself at high risk, particularly because he does not frequently spend time in wilderness areas typically associated with tick bites.

Lyme disease is often transmitted by the bite of infected ticks, with higher risks present in certain geographic locations, such as wooded or grassy areas. Despite this, Ohanian remains optimistic as he prepares to undergo a course of antibiotics to treat the condition.

In his health update, Ohanian also shared some other findings from his medical examinations. He revealed that while his cholesterol levels are not optimal, his free testosterone levels are notably high.

His openness about these results highlights his commitment to maintaining transparency with his 563,000 followers on social media. He took the opportunity to remind others to seek professional medical advice rather than relying on personal anecdotes for health guidance.

According to the Mayo Clinic, Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium *Borrelia burgdorferi*, which is primarily spread through tick bites. While the illness is most common in certain regions of the U.S., including the Northeast, Upper Midwest, and parts of the Mid-Atlantic, it is also prevalent in Europe and parts of Canada.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately 476,000 people in the U.S. may be diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease annually.

In most cases, a course of antibiotics lasting 10 to 14 days is effective, leading to a swift and complete recovery. However, some individuals may experience persistent symptoms even after treatment, a subject that has sparked debates within the medical community.

Ohanian joins a list of prominent figures who have publicly discussed their struggles with Lyme disease. Celebrities like Yolanda Hadid and her daughter Bella Hadid, stars of *The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills*, have been vocal about their battles with the illness.

Yolanda Hadid, in particular, has spoken openly about her debilitating symptoms and the profound impact Lyme disease has had on her mental health.

Similarly, musician Justin Bieber disclosed his diagnosis with Lyme disease in 2020, sharing that the illness, alongside chronic mononucleosis, had significantly affected his overall health.

While Lyme disease is often associated with outdoor activities in tick-prone areas, Ohanian’s diagnosis highlights the unpredictable nature of the condition.

His story underscores the importance of regular health screenings, even for those who may not consider themselves at risk. As he embarks on his treatment journey, Ohanian remains hopeful, using his platform to raise awareness about the disease and the necessity of seeking professional medical care.

Beyond his health battle, Ohanian is known for his work as an advocate for social justice and equality. In 2020, he made headlines when he resigned from Reddit’s board, urging the company to replace him with a Black candidate in an effort to promote diversity and inclusivity.

His actions demonstrated his commitment to fighting systemic racism and inequality, a stance that has earned him widespread respect and admiration.

Ohanian’s relationship with Serena Williams has also been a subject of public interest, not only because of their high-profile careers but also due to their enduring partnership.

The couple, who share two daughters—Alexis Olympia, born in 2017, and Adira River, born in 2023—have been vocal about the challenges they face while balancing their family life with their demanding professional careers.

The couple’s journey together began with a serendipitous meeting in Rome, which eventually led to a fairy-tale wedding in New Orleans in 2017. The star-studded event featured a lavish ceremony themed around Disney’s *Beauty and the Beast* and was attended by numerous celebrities, including Beyoncé and Kim Kardashian.

Throughout their marriage, Ohanian has remained a steadfast supporter of Williams, particularly during her pregnancy and postpartum period, which were fraught with health complications, including a pulmonary embolism.

While their relationship appears strong, it has not been without its challenges. Williams has faced public scrutiny throughout her career, particularly in moments of controversy, such as the 2018 US Open final against Naomi Osaka, where she was penalized for alleged coaching, sparking widespread debate about sexism in tennis.

Ohanian publicly defended his wife during this period, standing by her side through the ups and downs of both their personal and professional lives.

Ohanian’s health update comes at a time when the couple continues to juggle their responsibilities as parents and public figures. Serena Williams, who recently announced her retirement from professional tennis, remains a central figure in the sports world, with her legacy extending far beyond her achievements on the court.

The couple’s ability to navigate the pressures of public life while maintaining a strong family bond serves as an inspiration to many.

As Ohanian begins his treatment for Lyme disease, his story sheds light on the importance of health awareness and the unpredictable nature of certain conditions.

Through his openness and advocacy, he continues to use his platform to raise awareness on critical issues, from health to social justice, showing that even in times of personal adversity, one can have a positive impact on the world around them.