Hollywood legend Kathleen Turner made a moving public appearance in New York, openly discussing the significant impact her long-term health struggle has had on her mobility and daily life.
A Candid Admission About Mobility Challenges
The Romancing the Stone star attended the Citymeals on Wheels 38th Annual Power Lunch at The Plaza Hotel, where she gave an exclusive interview to The Daily Mail about her ongoing battle with rheumatoid arthritis. Turner, now 71, revealed she was using a wheelchair due to what she described as the cumulative effects of living with the chronic autoimmune condition for more than three decades.
"Actually, I'm in a wheelchair today because I'm having, you know, 35 years of rheumatoid arthritis is catching up. But, I'm here!" Turner shared with characteristic honesty when asked about her wellbeing at the November event.
Despite these physical challenges, the two-time Golden Globe winner emphasised her unwavering commitment to Citymeals on Wheels, noting she has served on the organisation's board for more than 30 years.
Living With Chronic Pain and Finding Solutions
Turner has never shied away from discussing her rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis, which she received in 1992. She has spoken openly about how the condition affects her mobility, balance, and everyday comfort. The progressive autoimmune disorder causes inflammation and chronic pain, significantly impacting physical movement.
When questioned about how she manages her ongoing symptoms, Turner admitted she would "rather not" deal with them, highlighting the daily realities of living with persistent pain.
The actress has previously been seen using a cane during public appearances and has occasionally required wheelchair assistance for additional support. She detailed the personal toll of her condition in her memoir Send Yourself Roses, hoping her openness might help others facing similar health challenges.
Maintaining Strength and Supporting Causes
For the prestigious charitable luncheon, Turner opted for a crushed velvet ensemble paired with practical black sneakers, striking a balance between elegance and comfort. She expressed genuine admiration for the event's energy and turnout, noting "500 women in the same room, 500 New York women is fantastic."
The former gymnast has found Pilates instrumental in maintaining her strength and managing symptoms, having previously told The Times: "Pilates, baby! Twice a week. Pilates saved my life."
Medical experts explain that rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the joint lining, leading to swelling, stiffness, pain and eventual joint damage. In advanced cases, the disease can make routine tasks increasingly difficult and may require mobility assistance like wheelchairs to preserve comfort and independence.
The star-studded Power Lunch event proved remarkably successful, raising over $1.4 million to deliver approximately 140,000 nourishing meals to homebound older New Yorkers in need. The gathering attracted prominent figures including Brooke Shields, Karlie Kloss, Christian Siriano, and Erin Lichy.
This year's event honoured longtime supporter Suri Kasirer, CEO of Kasirer LLC and Citymeals Board Vice President, who received the Joan H. Weill Impact Award. The luncheon was emceed by Deborah Roberts and co-chaired by Derek Blasberg, Dr. Samantha Boardman, Margo M. Nederlander and Lizzie Tisch.
Citymeals on Wheels represents the nonprofit's largest annual fundraiser, playing a critical role in supporting food-insecure seniors across New York City. The organisation works in partnership with community centres and local groups to deliver more than 2.2 million meals annually to over 22,000 homebound older residents, reinforcing its mission to end elder hunger by 2040.
Turner remains best known for her iconic roles in films like Body Heat and Romancing the Stone, as well as voicing Jessica Rabbit in Who Framed Roger Rabbit. She received an Oscar nomination for Peggy Sue Got Married and has appeared in popular television series including Friends, Californication, and The Kominsky Method.
