Emilia Clarke, renowned for her role as Daenerys Targaryen in ‘Game of Thrones,’ recently shared her personal journey of overcoming two brain hemorrhages she suffered in her twenties. Speaking at Variety’s Power of Women London event, Clarke, now 39, reflected on the challenges she faced and the long-term effects of her medical ordeal.

Overcoming Personal Challenges

Clarke first experienced a brain bleed in 2011, followed by another in 2013. Despite the severity of her condition, she returned to work quickly, masking the underlying issues she was dealing with. ‘I was ashamed and overwhelmed by a diagnosis I didn’t understand,’ Clarke admitted, highlighting the pressure she felt to appear unaffected.

She described how she ignored symptoms such as hormonal imbalances, extreme fatigue, and anxiety, attributing them to the stress of her demanding career. Clarke’s journey to understanding her condition led her to realize the complexity of brain injuries and their long-lasting impact.

Launching SameYou

In response to her experiences, Clarke founded SameYou, a charity aimed at supporting brain injury survivors. The organization provides resources and a community for those navigating the difficult path to recovery. Clarke emphasized the importance of understanding the profound effects brain injuries can have on one’s identity and mental health.

Through her collaboration with neuroscientist David Putrino at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, Clarke has regained much of the energy and positivity she had in her twenties. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating resilience and the power of community support in overcoming personal challenges.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.