Former X Factor star Katie Waissel, 40, has been hospitalised in Central London after being diagnosed with severe bacterial pneumonia. The singer, who rose to fame on the ITV talent show in 2010, revealed she was rushed to hospital by ambulance and admitted as an emergency patient.
Waissel took to social media to update her followers, apologising for her absence. On X, formerly known as Twitter, she wrote: 'Sorry I've been a little MIA, everyone. A couple of days ago I was rushed into hospital by ambulance and admitted as an emergency. It turns out I have severe bacterial pneumonia, so I've been rather unexpectedly residing in a hospital bed in Central London ever since.'
Excruciating Pain and Frightening Experience
Waissel described her ordeal as 'the most frightening and excruciatingly painful' experience she had ever endured. She added: 'At one point, I was apparently far closer to the edge than I realised. It's a very strange feeling being told afterwards just how serious things had become, when the whole time I genuinely thought I just needed to push through it and I'll be fine because I have to be.'
She expressed gratitude to the medical teams at St John and St Elizabeth Hospital in London, stating: 'The kindness, professionalism and compassion I've experienced has been nothing short of incredible. I'm taking things one day at a time, doing exactly as I'm told for once, and hoping to be back home sometime next week.'
Support from Fans
Waissel's followers quickly offered their support. One commented: 'Frightening. I'm glad you're on the mend and feeling better. Day by day!' Another wrote: 'Oh my goodness, Katie! Sending loads of love for a speedy recovery. Get better soon.' A third added: 'Ahhh Katie!! I'm so glad that you have recovered and are doing better! Pneumonia is no joke!'
Further messages included: 'Oh my God, I am so sorry to hear that, Katie. I am glad you are better now and take all the time you need to make a full recovery,' and 'So glad they're taking good care of you, Katie, get well soon and back to your family and own bed! Sending you lots of love and healing prayers.'
Previous Health Scare and Advocacy
This is not Waissel's first health scare. In 2021, she was rushed to hospital after suffering a suspected heart attack, requiring her to crawl down the stairs and dial 999. Since finding fame, she has used her platform to advocate for safety in the entertainment industry. She completed a postgraduate law course at BPP University and launched the OWHL Foundation, which focuses on 'welfare, human rights and liberty within the creative industry sector.' Waissel has called for an 'urgent need for change in the music industry.'
