Anok Yai, the acclaimed model recognized as the 2025 Model of the Year by the Fashion Awards, has disclosed her struggle with a serious medical condition. On December 19, 2023, the 28-year-old shared via social media that she has been diagnosed with a congenital defect that is severely affecting her heart and lungs.
In her heartfelt announcement, Yai detailed the challenges she faced over the past year. “For the past year I’ve been dealing with this silent battle,” she wrote, accompanied by videos and photos taken during her hospital stay. “I incidentally found out I had a congenital defect overworking my heart and slowly destroying my lungs.”
Initially asymptomatic, Yai’s condition progressed to a lingering cough, chest pains, and even coughing up blood. “I chose to work through this while trying to find the right doctor and the right time,” she explained. “I quickly realized there was never going to be a ‘right time’ – my health would continue to worsen.”
Yai expressed her realization that despite her efforts to maintain a busy schedule, her health issues required immediate attention. She underwent a successful robotic lung surgery, a minimally invasive procedure designed to remove diseased lung tissue and surrounding lymph nodes, performed by renowned surgeon Dr. Robert Cerfolio and his skilled team.
“I am forever grateful for Dr. Harmik Soukiasian and everyone at the Beverly Hills Concierge Health for discovering my condition,” Yai stated. She also thanked the medical professionals at New York University Langone Health, emphasizing the importance of their support during her recovery.
In her concluding remarks, Yai reassured her fans that she is on the path to healing, stating, “For now I’m healing … but I’ll be back. See ya ❤️.”
As she continues her recovery, fans and supporters around the world wish her a swift return to health. Yai’s courage in sharing her experience sheds light on the importance of addressing health concerns promptly, regardless of one’s professional commitments.
