Venus Williams bowing out of the 2011 US Open

Tennis champion Venus Williams was diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome in 2011, causing her tennis career to almost grind to a halt. After a rough season of injuries and match withdrawals, she announced she was suffering from the autoimmune disease, telling media she’s suffered chronic depression, swelling, numbness and fatigue, all common symptoms of Sjögren's. The condition severely hindered her athletic performance, ultimately causing her to withdraw from the 2011 US Open in the second round.

After her diagnosis, Williams made some drastic lifestyle changes, moving to a raw vegan diet that she says helps her control her symptoms, manage the condition and, ultimately, return to tennis. Williams is now the honorary chair of the Sjögren’s Awareness Ambassador Program.

Sjögren’s syndrome is a result of the body’s immune system attacking certain tissues, specifically the glands in the tear ducts and the mouth. It can also impact vital organs, such as the kidneys and lungs. Although the condition can appear at any age, it’s more prevalent in people over 40 and women. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms.