Lydia Cornell, the radiant comedy star who charmed millions as Sara Rush in the hit 1980s sitcom 'Too Close for Comfort', has bravely revealed the harrowing details of a health crisis that nearly ended her life and left her financially destitute.
Now 72, the actress known for her bubbly on-screen persona has shared a starkly different reality from her glamorous television days. In an emotional and exclusive interview, Cornell detailed her brutal battle with toxic mould poisoning, a condition she claims was repeatedly misdiagnosed by medical professionals for years.
A Descent Into Illness
'I was dying and no one could tell me why,' Cornell confessed, describing a decade-long ordeal that saw her health deteriorate dramatically. The poisoning, originating from mould in her home, led to a terrifying array of symptoms including severe brain fog, debilitating vertigo, and crippling fatigue that left her bedridden and unable to work.
Her career, which had seen a promising resurgence with appearances on shows like 'The Talk' with Sara Gilbert, came to an abrupt halt. The medical bills began to pile up, savings were drained, and the actress was forced to confront a terrifying new reality.
Facing Financial Ruin
The financial toll of her illness has been catastrophic. 'I lost everything,' she stated with heartbreaking candour. 'The medical expenses were astronomical, and when you can't work, the money just stops. I faced complete financial ruin.' The actress has been forced to sell personal belongings and rely on the support of friends to make ends meet, a far cry from her heyday as a prime-time television sensation.
A Message of Warning and Hope
Despite the immense personal suffering, Cornell is now channelling her experience into advocacy. She hopes her story will serve as a stark warning about the hidden dangers of toxic mould and the critical importance of environmental health. She also aims to shed light on the plight of those who fall through the cracks of the healthcare system.
While her future remains uncertain, the iconic bombshell's fighting spirit endures. Her story is not just one of tragedy, but also of incredible resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity, proving that the strength of a sitcom star goes far beyond the television screen.
