A mother was diagnosed with a rare and life-threatening condition after experiencing excessive tiredness, causing her to miss her son’s birthday celebration.
Holly McGougan, 31, had a history of health challenges, including pneumonia at 16 and multiple episodes of shingles since she was 24. Despite seeking medical help over the years, her health deteriorated significantly last year.
She began facing severe migraines, weight loss, extreme fatigue, cognitive issues, and low blood pressure. Holly even fell asleep during her son’s birthday party and would sometimes sleep for an entire day.
After being misdiagnosed with anxiety, depression, and fibromyalgia, Holly persisted in seeking a proper diagnosis. In September 2025, she was finally informed that she had Addison’s disease, a rare condition characterized by insufficient cortisol production by the adrenal glands.
This condition leads to extreme fatigue, weakened immunity, and heightened susceptibility to illnesses like shingles. Holly, a content creator from Paisley, Scotland, expressed relief upon receiving the diagnosis but also voiced concerns about her future with her two sons.
Having to take steroids thrice daily for the rest of her life, Holly worries about missing out on her children’s growth. Despite maintaining sobriety, exercising regularly, and following a healthy diet, she struggled with exhaustion and pain, leading to the discovery of her low cortisol levels.
Holly’s husband now assists her with medication administration, and she carries a hypercortisol injection for emergencies. While steroids help her stay awake, her symptoms worsen during menstruation, leaving her completely drained.
Currently traveling in Thailand with her family, Holly finds solace in the sun easing her discomfort. However, she grapples with guilt over not being able to fully engage with her children due to her condition.
Despite the challenges, Holly remains optimistic and refuses to let the disease control her life. She shares her journey on social media platforms to raise awareness and connect with others facing similar struggles.