Nikita Pelizon, the 30-year-old model and winner of the seventh season of Grande Fratello Vip, recently opened up about her serious health struggles during her appearance on the Italian talk show Verissimo. Speaking candidly to host Silvia Toffanin, Pelizon shared details about her heart condition, which led her to face significant challenges over the past couple of years.
The model revealed, "Ho un problema al cuore che mi ha causato un'ischemia l'anno scorso" (I have a heart problem which caused me ischemia last year). Her health issues, which also included persistent dizziness and leg tremors, were initially thought to be psychological stress. "Sono stati due anni difficili. Avevo continui giramenti di testa, mi tremavano le gambe, credevo fosse lo stress. Ero sempre stanca. Non riuscivo a capire cosa fosse, ora finalmente lo so" (It has been two difficult years. I had continuous dizziness, my legs trembled, I thought it was stress. I was always tired. I couldn't understand what it was; now I finally know), Pelizon expressed, shedding light on the long path leading to her diagnosis.
After struggling to find answers, Nikita learned she would require significant surgery to remedy her heart issues. She explained, "Questo dovrebbe migliorare la mia condizione di salute" (This should improve my health condition), emphasizing her hopefulness as she prepares for the procedure scheduled for March. Pelizon acknowledged the need to drastically alter her lifestyle since learning about her heart condition. "Ho dovuto rallentare con i ritmi, non posso più fare tanta attività fisica come prima" (I had to slow down my pace; I can no longer do as much physical activity as before), she stated, making it clear how serious her condition had become.
The model's troubles haven't been limited to her health; she recounted a frightening experience involving her neighbor when she first moved to Milan. This neighbor, initially appearing cordial, became obsessive and installed hidden cameras to take photographs of her without consent. This harrowing ordeal contributed to Pelizon's decision to flee Milan and return to her family, where she has found comfort and support. "Non era una persona che stava bene, ma grazie a questa situazione sono scappata da Milano e sono tornata dalla mia famiglia. E ora sono molto più contenta" (He was not well, but because of this situation, I ran away from Milan and returned to my family. Now I am much happier), she recounted, conveying the relief of escaping such harassment.
Pelizon also delved deeply back to her adolescent years, sharing how the pressures of growing up within her strict family unit, which followed the Jehovah’s Witness faith, impacted her mental health. "Pensavo che sarebbe stata la mia strada perché ero nata in una famiglia così..." (I thought this was my path because I was born in such a family...) she disclosed, reflecting on the intense pressure she felt. Nikita candidly acknowledged moments of despair from her youth, expressing, "A 16 anni ho pensato al suicidio" (At 16 I thought about suicide). She illuminated the heaviness of her youth, sharing how she attempted to escape her home life when things became overwhelming.
Today, the former reality star is determined to reconstruct her relationship with her past and her family. She expressed contentment and strength from her experiences, saying, "Volevo farlo finita, ma sono molto contenta che non sia successo" (I wanted to end it, but I am very happy it didn’t happen). This sentiment reveals her growth and the positive outlook she aims to adopt as she navigates this new chapter of her life, emphasizing the importance of self-love and personal growth rather than external validation.
Despite the darkness she has faced, Pelizon remains hopeful. With the upcoming surgery on the horizon—promising to improve her condition—she seems ready to embrace whatever lies ahead. The public eagerly awaits any news related to her comprehensive health overhaul and steps toward self-acceptance and happiness. After all, Pelizon has made it abundantly clear she's ready to take the reins of her life, both physically and emotionally.