Camilla Luddington is a British actress best known for playing Dr. Jo Wilson on ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy.” She has bravely opened up her diagnosis with Hashimoto’s disease to the public. The news was broken on the first episode of the “Call It What It Is” podcast. Jessica’s discussion was joined by fellow “Grey’s Anatomy” star Jessica Capshaw. Luddington, who has been on the cast since 2012, during MPTF NextGen Annual Summer Party fundraiser on June 22, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. There, she shared her story of what has become an inspiring health journey.
By then 41, Luddington started to notice alarming levels of fatigue and the effects of anemia, encouraging her to pursue a diagnosis. After receiving her diagnosis, she said she felt relief. In an interview with ABC News, Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Tara Narula spoke about her experience with atrial fibrillation. She explained the positive steps that she, both personally and professionally, are taking to get ahead of it.
Hashimoto’s disease, another autoimmune disorder, is the most common cause of hypothyroidism and affects approximately 5% of Americans. According to the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the condition occurs four to ten times more frequently in women. Men are about 8 times less likely to be affected by it. Luddington’s openness about her diagnosis aims to shed light on the condition and encourage others who may be experiencing similar health challenges.
When Luddington began to experience extreme fatigue, she made the decision to get bloodwork, and knew something was wrong. Reflecting on the moment she had her blood drawn, she recalled a conversation with her doctor:
“When I was having my blood drawn, the doctor said to me, ‘Is there any reason for concern?’” – Camilla Luddington
Once she accepted her diagnosis, Luddington was reassured by knowing that she wasn’t the only one suffering from Hashimoto’s disease. She noted,
“I think when I realized how common it was, it became less scary. And then, honestly, one of the first things I felt was relief.” – Camilla Luddington
During her interview with Dr. Narula on “Good Morning America,” Luddington revealed that she is now on medication to treat her condition. In her short time on the plan, she’s already seen big changes to her health. It’s her hope that by sharing her experience, we can better connect with all those who might feel lost on their health journey.
“I imagine there are so many people like me on this journey that are also really confused, and so I wanted to bring people along,” – Camilla Luddington
Luddington emphasized the need for firsthand accounts of health experiences. She hopes this transparency can build a powerful community among people experiencing similar struggles. She is hoping to meet with more specialists and medical professionals. Her mission is to raise awareness and provide helpful, informative content for those affected by Hashimoto’s disease.
“I want to be able to talk to experts and doctors, get information and get more information out there. And I also just think that when you share a story or a diagnosis, it makes other people feel like they’re not alone,” – Camilla Luddington
Camilla Luddington takes to Instagram to share her endometriosis diagnosis and medical management journey. In the process, she advocates for Hashimoto’s disease and encourages others to educate themselves and get the treatment they need to reclaim their health.