Unforgettable Journey: Somizi’s Daughter Bahumi Mhlongo Speaks On Bullying Over Her Chronic Condition
Star Somizi’s daughter, Bahumi Mhlongo, has spoken out, revealing that she got bullied over her chronic condition.
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Bahumi is currently fighting a chronic disease called lymphoedema. The NHS explains the condition:
“Lymphoedema is a long-term (chronic) condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues. It can affect any part of the body but usually develops in the arms or legs. It develops when the lymphatic system does not work properly. The lymphatic system is a network of channels and glands throughout the body that helps fight infection and remove excess fluid.”
Somizi’s Daughter Bahumi Mhlongo Speaks On Lymphoedema Battle
From the pictures she shares on her Instagram, Bahumi’s right leg is swollen and visibly bigger than the others. She revealed to the Daily Sun that doctors diagnosed her with lymphoedema at the tender age of 12, and she did not understand what it meant at first.
Somizi’s Daughter Bahumi Mhlongo Speaks On Bullying Over Her Chronic Condition [Image: bahumimhlongo/Instagram]
Bahumi added that the condition made her feel distinctly different from other kids. They also noticed the difference and often teased and called her names because of her swollen leg.
The bullying got to Bahumi, building intense insecurities and shame in her, pushing her to try and hide the condition by wearing long pants and skirts. As a result, she slipped into depression and anxiety so much that she contemplated taking her own life at one point.
Taking Charge Of Her Life
With time, Bahumi Mhlongo started accepting her life and the condition, embracing herself with love as her family stood by her. She credits her dad, Somizi, for pumping her with inspiration and motivation.
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Somizi took Bahumi’s hand and guided her to become more confident and proud without internalising anyone’s opinion of her. The veteran television personality also pushed her to pursue acting and modelling, and use that to raise awareness and teach people about lymphoedema.
