Bijou Phillips Hospitalised and in Critical Need of Second Kidney Transplant
Model and actor Bijou Phillips has been admitted to a Los Angeles hospital and is in urgent need of a second kidney transplant, according to her representative. The 45-year-old is currently on dialysis after her first transplanted kidney, which was donated by a friend in 2017, has failed.
Complications Following Initial Transplant
Since undergoing the initial transplant procedure eight years ago, Phillips has faced significant medical complications. These include contracting the flu-like polyomavirus, which led to both cellular and antibody rejection of the donor kidney. Her representative confirmed to Page Six on Wednesday that she remains in stable condition in hospital, but emphasised that "time is of the essence" as the search for a new donor continues.
Longstanding Health Battle
Throughout her career, Phillips has been open about her diagnosis with kidney disease, which stems from being born with underdeveloped kidneys. The model underwent her first kidney transplant in 2017 while still married to actor Danny Masterson, with a friend serving as the donor. Representatives for Phillips did not immediately respond to The Independent's request for comment regarding her current hospitalisation.
Recent Public Appearances
Despite her health challenges, Phillips has been seen socialising with celebrity friends following her divorce from Masterson. Photographs published recently show her attending parties, though her current hospitalisation indicates her health situation has become more critical. The search for a suitable kidney donor is now underway as medical professionals work to stabilise her condition.
More details are expected to emerge as Phillips' medical team continues treatment and the search for a donor progresses. Her representative maintains that while she is currently stable, the urgency of finding a compatible kidney remains paramount to her recovery.
