TOWIE star Jordan Brook has announced he has been diagnosed with meningitis after spending nearly two weeks in hospital. Sharing a video from his hospital bed, Jordan shared the truth about his diagnosis, revealing this is the first time he has been able to speak properly about it.
The 31-year-old said: “This is the first time I’ve really been able to speak strong enough about what’s going on. There’s been a lot of speculations as to why I’m here and what’s going on and there’s a few comments and people are saying things. I’ve been diagnosed with not one, but two joining viruses that are attacking a similar part of my body. I’ve got viral meningitis and encephalitis together. That’s inflammation of the brain and the lining around it so this isn’t something small or minor.”
Jordan went on to explain that he has had CT scans, MRI scans and lumbar punctures to pinpoint his diagnosis. Highlighting the severity of his condition, Jordan revealed he has had round-the-clock care since he was admitted to hospital and is hooked up to IV drips and being monitored for seizures to minimise the risk.
“Unfortunately the swelling in my brain is getting worse. It’s really really tough,” he said, before admitting he is struggling to complete normal day-to-day activities.
“I’m on day 11 of treatment and I’d like to reach out to everyone and say, just be careful what you read online and be conscious of some things that people are writing and commenting. This isn’t a joke.”
The TV star explained that people have been spreading misinformation about his diagnosis, but insisted: “The swelling on my brain is really bad. They’ve upped my meds to try and get the swelling down.”
He admitted he doesn’t know how much longer he’ll be in hospital, but shared that his focus is to get healthy. He went on to praise his pregnant partner, Sophie Kasaei, saying that she has been “amazing” throughout the ordeal.
“She’s growing my precious baby boy. I just want to be a young, healthy dad, home for my family. That’s the goal. This won’t beat me. I will get out of this,” Jordan added.
He concluded by thanking those around him and acknowledging the messages of support he has received. “We’re not out of the woods yet but we’re getting there,” he said.
In the caption, Jordan wrote: “My diagnosis – First time I’ve been strong enough to speak on this. Not one, but two viruses — viral meningitis and encephalitis. This isn’t minor. Scans, treatment, and still a long road ahead.
“Be careful what you read — not everything being said is true. Right now my focus is simple: Get healthy and get home to my family.”
Jordan added: “Grateful for the doctors, my family, and everyone supporting me. Life can throw curveballs when you least expect it. I will not beat – JB.”
The TV personality was rushed to hospital and discovered he had a swelling on the brain 11 days ago. He underwent various tests and procedures to try out what was causing the problem before learning of his double diagnosis.
In another social media update, he wrote: “Day 10 in hospital. Hardest battle I’ve ever fought. Family is everything. Praying and hoping. Meds up. Brain is showing continued issues, swelling and pain.”
Sophie, 36, is unable to be by his side in hospital as there are too many risks.
The Geordie Shore star said: “It’s been a tough two weeks for our family. Seeing Jordan so poorly has been hard but he is getting there and will get better. It’s going to take time but he is so strong and he’s getting through knowing he’s going to be an amazing dad and that moment is coming.
“Me and bump are just praying and staying strong for dadda and we can’t wait for him to be home soon. Few more days and we will have answers. We live in a scary world. Thank you for all your messages, means a lot. We are all staying positive and every day is a day closer to being back as a family.”