Chinese actress Zhao Lusi, who was unable to walk or speak after being diagnosed with conversion disorder in December, made her comeback after just one month.
Conversion disorder is a rare mental health condition that causes physical symptoms without an underlying physical cause. Those suffering from it can have serious symptoms such as sudden blindness, paralysis, or seizures.
Lusi, 26, looked to be in good spirits when she attended a charity event last Saturday (Jan 25) for Viee, a beverage brand which she endorses.
Although she could stand and walk, she still required the help of a walking stick.
During a live broadcast, the star said that she rushed to return to work before the Chinese New Year to show her fans and family that she had recovered and to reassure them of her well-being.
She shared that she was doing well, and despite her weight dropping to 36.9 kg at one point, she has since gained 8 pounds (about 4 kg) during her recovery.
Recalling her illness, Lusi admitted that experiencing paralysis and speech loss made her feel distressed.
“It was really hard for me to face myself during that period, so I feel so grateful to be in this state now,” she said, adding that she believed that her past good deeds brought her blessings for recovery.
Lusi encouraged those facing illness to remain hopeful: “As an artiste, I’ve already been well compensated in many aspects, so I hope you, outside the spotlight, will keep going.”
She also expressed gratitude to Viee for their understanding, joking: “For now, I don’t have any pending compensation claims.”
Due to her illness, Lusi had to suspend all activities, sparking rumours that she might face billions in breach-of-contract penalties and hence her hurry to return to work.
She was also mocked as a “medical marvel” for her quick recovery.
In response, Lusi said: “Recently, I saw people calling me a medical marvel. Drink more Viee and share that strength with everyone.”
After the event, the keyword “Zhao Lusi responds to medical marvel” quickly trended on Weibo and she was praised for her positivity.
“The queen turns haters’ attacks into jokes,” wrote one fan, while another said: “So-called medical miracles don’t exist; love just makes people stronger. Jia you, Lusi!”