Gal Gadot, renowned for her role as “Wonder Woman,” has shared a deeply personal and harrowing health experience during her pregnancy with her fourth child.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Gadot revealed that in February, during her eighth month of pregnancy, she endured severe headaches that confined her to bed. An MRI later uncovered a “massive” blood clot in her brain.
“In one moment, my family and I were faced with how fragile life can be,” Gadot wrote. “It was a stark reminder of how quickly everything can change, and in the midst of a difficult year, all I wanted was to hold on and live.”
Emergency Surgery and Daughter’s Birth
Following the diagnosis, Gadot was rushed to the hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery. During the procedure, her daughter Ori was born.
“Her name, meaning ‘my light,’ wasn’t chosen by chance,” Gadot said. “Before the surgery, I told Jaron [Varsano, her husband] that when our daughter arrived, she would be the light waiting for me at the end of this tunnel.”
The actress expressed deep gratitude for the medical team that ensured her recovery, describing them as “extraordinary.”
Raising Awareness About Health Risks
Now fully healed, Gadot reflected on the importance of listening to our bodies, noting that subtle changes or discomfort can indicate serious health issues.
She highlighted the rarity of her condition, cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT), which affects approximately 3 in 100,000 pregnant women aged 30 and above.
“While rare, it’s a possibility. Knowing it exists is the first step to addressing it,” she said. “Sharing this is not meant to frighten but to empower. If even one person takes action for their health because of this story, it will have been worth sharing.”
A Miracle and a Message
In the comment section, Gadot reflected on her journey, calling the experience of giving birth a “miracle” and urging mothers to prioritize self-care.
“As we celebrate Hanukkah, a holiday of light and miracles, I reflect on the personal miracle I was granted. My daughter Ori is a constant reminder of resilience, hope, and the strength we carry within,” she wrote.
Gadot and her husband, Israeli film producer Jaron Varsano, have three other daughters: Alma, Maya, and Daniella. The couple, married since 2008, welcomed Ori in March.
Fans will next see Gadot on the big screen as the Evil Queen in Disney’s live-action Snow White, premiering March 21, 2025.