Gennaro Gattuso’s Story with Ocular Myasthenia Gravis: “Resilience Is Everything”
Most know Gennaro Gattuso for his intensity on the pitch—as a World Cup-winning footballer and commanding coach. But behind the scenes, he’s been facing a private and deeply challenging battle: ocular myasthenia gravis (MG), a rare autoimmune disease that affects muscle strength, especially around the eyes.
In an exclusive voice message to mama health, Gattuso opened up about his journey with MG —sharing the ups, the downs, and the power of resilience. His hope? That others living with this misunderstood condition will feel less alone, and more empowered to keep moving forward.
“You have to adapt. That’s the only way. Accept the illness, follow the treatment, and never let depression win.”
— Gennaro Gattuso
What Is Ocular Myasthenia Gravis?
Ocular myasthenia gravis is a form of myasthenia gravis, a chronic autoimmune condition that causes weakness in the voluntary muscles. The ocular type primarily affects eye movement and eyelid control, often causing double vision (diplopia) and drooping eyelids (ptosis). While it's less common than generalized MG, it can still deeply impact daily life and mental well-being.
Gattuso’s MG Story: In His Own Words
The First Signs and Misdiagnoses
Gattuso’s journey was not a straightforward one. Like many myasthenia gravis (MG) patients, his diagnosis was filled with uncertainty and misdiagnoses. As his symptoms persisted, he saw more doctors, each offering a new theory, but no clear answers.
One doctor in Bologna suspected it might be a sexually transmitted disease. While this theory was quickly ruled out, the doctor tried a different approach: he stopped the cortisone and instead used botulinum toxin injections to paralyze one eye in an effort to stop the double vision. It offered temporary relief, but it wasn’t a long-term solution.
After some time, Gattuso was referred to the Besta Institute in Milan, where a CT scan finally revealed the real cause of his condition: a thymoma, a tumor on the thymus gland, which is often associated with MG.
Immunosuppressive Therapy—and Getting Back on the Pitch
Gattuso faced a difficult challenge with his health, as doctors discovered that his thymus was still active despite his ongoing condition. He was put on immunosuppressive IV treatments twice a week, which became a lifeline, allowing him to return to playing football.
This was a victory, especially when the doctors initially doubted it was possible. His physical and mental resilience played a key role in his recovery, helping him push through the toughest of times.
However, even after starting treatment, the challenges didn’t stop. Living with myasthenia gravis (MG) drastically changed every aspect of his daily life. Simple tasks became monumental hurdles.
Keeping his eyes open was difficult—watching TV or even sitting at the table, he saw double vision. Despite the constant struggles, he had to fight just to manage the symptoms. Every day was about holding onto his mental strength and staying focused on not letting the condition defeat him.
This honest reflection highlights something crucial: MG is as much a psychological battle as it is a physical one. Isolation, frustration, and exhaustion are often invisible parts of the patient experience.
Gattuso’s Message to Others with MG
“The secret is resilience. Accept the illness. Follow your treatment. Don’t let depression win. That’s what helped me keep going.”
Gattuso wanted to share this story specifically with the mama health community, a space where patients with chronic conditions can feel heard and supported.
Final Thoughts: Why Stories Like This Matter
There are thousands of people living with myasthenia gravis—each with a unique journey. Stories like Gattuso’s help shine a light on the real-life experiences behind the diagnosis. By opening up, he’s showing that strength doesn’t just come from muscles—it comes from persistence, honesty, and the will to keep showing up, even when things feel impossible.