Bindi Irwin, wildlife enthusiast and daughter of the late great Steve Irwin, returned from an emergency surgery just days ago. This operation became a need because of complications from her longterm fight with endometriosis. The life-saving procedure was performed at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City right after she flew in from the West Coast specifically to receive treatment. This medical emergency forced her to miss the annual Steve Irwin Gala, which celebrates her father’s legacy and raises funds for wildlife conservation.
On May 3, 2024, Irwin was spotted at the Endometriosis Foundation of America’s 12th Annual Blossom Ball. The Great American Build event held at Gotham Hall in New York City. She has openly discussed her struggles with endometriosis, a condition defined by the World Health Organization as “a disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.” In 2023, she opened up about her diagnosis and the impact it has had on her day-to-day life.
She had been having some serious health issues in the last weeks. Two years ago, she had surgery to remove 37 lesions of endometriosis and a cyst. Sadly, this time when she went through this latest episode, she found her body had created 14 new endo lesions. Her appendix perforated, requiring an emergency appendectomy and umbilical hernia repair.
Irwin had suffered for some time with vague abdominal pain prior to her operation, which she jokingly referred to as a “grumpy appendix.” She hadn’t been feeling well but had first planned to make it to the Steve Irwin Gala in Las Vegas. Ultimately, she chose to put her health first.
“But the surgeon said, ‘No, your appendix is going. That thing’s gotta come out.’ Health has to come first.” – Robert Irwin
While Irwin is recovering, her mother, Terri Irwin, remained at her side during this hospital scare, lending emotional support through a painful time. Though she was under anaesthesia, the surgery was rated as successful, meaning Bindi could start the process of recovery only a few hours later.
In the days following the operation, Bindi used Instagram to explain to her followers that she is on the path to health.
“I just wanted to let you know that I’m on the road to recovery. One step at a time and I’m so lucky to have so much love in my life from my beautiful family,” – Bindi Irwin
Dr. Tamer A. Seckin, an innovative gynecologic surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital, was instrumental with her treatment. He captured the struggle for doctors and patients alike in diagnosing and treating endometriosis, saying,
“It doesn’t show up in any imaging. And there’s no blood test,”
He went on to explain the importance of first-hand observation via laparoscopy in order to definitively diagnose the condition.
Bindi’s brother, Robert Irwin, shared insights into his sister’s determination even while in pain. He highlighted the fact that she had made arrangements to attend the gala but decided at the last minute that her health should come first.
“She came to Las Vegas and was ready to come to the gala, put on a brave face in a lot of discomfort and a lot of pain and said, ‘Nope, I’m just going to tough it out, I’m going to go for it,’” – Robert Irwin
Even with her own health issues, Bindi is focused on the future and on healing. She thanked everyone who helped her get through this period and looks forward to returning to her conservation work.
“I’m actually able to go on a walk with my family. I’m able to do the conservation work that I am so, so passionate about,” – Bindi Irwin
The recent events have underscored the importance of health and well-being for Bindi Irwin as she continues to advocate for wildlife and raise awareness about endometriosis. Her journey underscores that personal perseverance is not enough and reveals much more about the current state of women’s health.
