Pamela Anderson recounted the profound impact of her Hepatitis C diagnosis, describing it as a "death sentence" that significantly altered her life decisions. Speaking at the 83rd Venice Film Festival during the amfAR Gala, Anderson shared that doctors initially gave her approximately 10 years to live after her diagnosis in 2002.
"It was not fear of death, but fear of what might happen to my young children," Anderson stated, explaining how the diagnosis influenced her choices. She believes she contracted the virus by sharing a tattoo needle with her former husband, Tommy Lee, a claim Lee has publicly denied. Anderson has two sons, Brandon and Dylan, with Lee.
The actor, known for her role in "Baywatch," detailed the financial toll of her treatment, noting that it consumed her savings. She confirmed she was free of the virus by 2015. "I was lucky," Anderson said, emphasizing that she received treatment in its early stages when it was not yet covered by insurance. She expressed guilt that others did not have the same access to care.
Anderson also spoke about the lingering feelings of shame and guilt associated with her diagnosis, comparing it to the impact of childhood sexual abuse. She stated that the experience made her feel like "damaged goods."
Despite these struggles, Anderson, who received the amfAR Award of Courage at the ceremony, expressed that she has come to terms with her diagnosis. "I'm not a victim, I'm a victor. I am strong and capable, more now than I could ever dream of," she declared, rejecting the label of a "damsel in distress."