Rebecca Adlington reveals life changing disease diagnosis and issues plea to government

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Olympian Rebecca Adlington has revealed she’s been diagnosed with a life changing disease.

The 36-year-old swimmer made a plea to the UK government explaining that she has coeliac disease.

In a video shared to Coeliac UK Instagram, she shared: ‘I have definitely quickly learnt how vital gluten-free prescriptions are for managing this condition.

‘But in some areas, these prescriptions are totally being cut. Coeliac UK is handing a petition to Number 10 to make sure we’re heard, so please sign and share the petition today.’ 

The condition is caused by a reaction to gluten.

When someone with coeliac disease eats gluten, the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues. This causes damage to the lining of the gut and means that the body can’t absorb nutrients properly.

‘I have definitely quickly learnt how vital gluten-free prescriptions are for managing this condition’ (Picture: RebeccaAdlington/Instagram)

In October 2023, the sports pundit announced the devastating news her and her partner Andrew Parson’s daughter was stillborn after Rebecca went for a routine 20 week scan.

She wrote on Instagram: ‘I don’t really have the words for right now but unfortunately, we went for our 20-week scan this week and they discovered no heartbeat.

‘I gave birth to our angel, Harper, on Friday at 7pm. We held her and had time with her. We will forever love and always remember her.’

She continued: ‘We can’t thank the staff at Wythenshawe enough. (213 Rachel, Emma and Keeley, your kindness and care throughout was simply incredible.

‘And Andy, your selfless support, love and help is truly amazing. I couldn’t of survived without you. I don’t have the strength or words right now and don’t feel ready to share this news.’

Rebecca went on: ‘However, I can’t pretend to be ok or fake a smile. I can’t have people ask me how pregnancy is or when I am due as I still look pregnant. I don’t have the strength to tell this news individually. We are so truly heartbroken. Our beautiful girl. Rest in peace.’

Rebecca and Andrew already share son Albie, four, while she shares daughter Summer, 10, with her ex Harry Needs.

She had announced her pregnancy last month and previously revealed a miscarriage in August 2022 which was discovered during her 12-week scan and required emergency surgery.

Rebecca has also shared that she believed that her ongoing struggles with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) would affect her chances of conceiving.

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