Woman shares impact of Belle Gibson's misinformation

Bella Johnston, a 30-year-old cancer survivor from Australia, reflects on her past struggles and the influence of health influencer Belle Gibson. Johnston was misdiagnosed with anorexia at 15, despite suffering from severe physical symptoms. Doctors overlooked her real issues, leading her to rely on alternative health advice during a challenging time in her life. Gibson, who claimed to have cured her cancer through diet and holistic treatments, became popular online in the mid-2010s. Johnston discovered Gibson while seeking alternatives to traditional medicine. At the time, she had a tumor in her neck, but doctors mistakenly attributed it to glandular fever. Following alternative treatments and dietary plans suggested by Gibson, Johnston faced a devastating cancer diagnosis at 19. Johnston struggled with her health after her surgery, resisting some medical advice while clinging to Gibson's wellness tips. Although she initially believed in Gibson’s approach, her father's guidance helped her stay on a more traditional treatment path, which ultimately saved her life. Since then, Johnston has confronted the emotional and physical toll of her illness. She has permanent health issues as a result of her cancer, including problems with her vocal cords, and she often reflects on how the misinformation she consumed shaped her experiences. Recently, Gibson's story was revisited in a Netflix documentary, prompting Johnston to speak out about her journey. She now uses her social media platform to share her story and advocate for others, aiming to create a supportive community for those affected by similar health struggles. Johnston emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and connecting with others to combat misinformation.