NeNe Leakes Hospitalized & 'Thankful To Be Alive'
Real Housewives of Atlanta star NeNe Leakes issued a statement Tuesday denying reports that she had suffered a heart attack, but explained that she feels lucky to be alive after being hospitalized last week to be treated for blood clots in her lung.
"First and foremost, I so dearly love and appreciate each and every one of you for your concern and your prayers," Leakes said in a message on her official website.
The 45-year-old reality star revealed that she began feeling ill late last week with symptoms including shortness of breath so she decided to be checked out at the hospital. "After some routine tests I was diagnosed with blood clots in my lung. I'm told this happened to me because of the constant traveling around the country that I do for my job."
She also praised the people who treated her condition, which often isn't detected right away. "I am fortunate to have had a wonderful experience with the doctors and nurses who took care of me... I'm thankful to be alive as the doctor advised me that most people don't recognize the symptoms of blood clots and don’t go to the doctor and that's when the big problems start happening."
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Leakes added that she is currently recovering at home "with my wonderful husband and family."