The beloved 'Drag Race' icon from the third season of RuPaul's show opens up about her recent health struggles and how she's striving to get back on her feet.
- Jun 18, 2024
AceShowbiz - In a heartfelt revelation that has touched the "Drag Race" community, season 3 icon Stacy Layne Matthews discussed her recent struggles with a severe spinal condition that dramatically impacted her mobility. The performer, adored by fans and known affectionately as "Henny," has been facing a series of health challenges that have forced her to step back from the stage temporarily.
Stacy shared two emotionally charged videos over the weekend, where she explained her ordeal with spinal stenosis - a condition that narrows the spaces within the spine, causing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This condition led to a particularly frightening episode when she lost control of her legs upon arriving in Flagstaff, Arizona, for a show.
"I was having some issues with my back. I had another show in Flagstaff, Ariz. I don't know what happened, but I started having issues with the mobility in my legs. When I got off the plane at Flagstaff, I literally lost control of my legs," she said while filming from a hospital bed, with a breathing tube in her nose.
Amid her disappointment at being unable to perform, Stacy expressed heartfelt apologies to fans who had hoped to see her.
The situation has been particularly tough for Stacy, who explained that her insurance would not cover the rehabilitation necessary for her recovery. "Please help me. I promise I won't ask for anyone's help again. I'm here alone. My insurance won't pay for rehab and I just wanna go home. After all this, I will continue to suffer in silence. I can't handle anymore negative comments. If you want to help... That would be great. If you can't just pray for me. I'm just tired and don't want to be here," she shared candidly.
Not one to back down from a challenge, Stacy is determined to regain her mobility through rigorous physical therapy as recommended by her doctors. "They just wanna focus on physical therapy to [better the] use of my legs because of the compromised nerves running to them from my spine," she told Entertainment Weekly in a private message.
Known for her unforgettable portrayal of Oscar-winning actress Mo'Nique during the "Snatch Game" on "RuPaul's Drag Race" season 3, Stacy quickly became a fan favorite. She brought warmth, humor, and a unique charm to the competition, despite being eliminated in the episode following her "Snatch Game" win.
In April 2023, Stacy faced yet another health setback that required hospital treatment, once again asking her fans for their well-wishes and prayers. Through it all, Stacy's resilience and courage have shone brightly, embodying the spirit of perseverance.
As she continues her recovery journey, Stacy's story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of health and community support. Fans worldwide are sending their love and encouragement, hopeful that this iconic queen will soon be back on stage, ready to shine once more.
