Mickey Lee, a houseguest on the 27th season of the reality series “Big Brother,” was hospitalized after suffering a series of cardiac arrests, according to a statement posted on her official Instagram account Monday, Dec. 22.
Lee, 35, remains in critical but stable condition in an intensive care unit as she receives ongoing medical care.
Lee, an event curator by profession, competed on “Big Brother” earlier this year, ultimately placing tenth after her eviction in week eight.
During her time on the show, she served as head of household in week four and exercised an interrogation power to remove fellow contestant Rylie Jeffries from the position.
She was also known for participating in several strategic alliances, although her assertive leadership style reportedly led to her eviction by other houseguests.
The cardiac arrests were reported to have stemmed from flu related complications. A GoFundMe page linked in the Instagram post has already raised more than $22,000 to assist with Lee’s medical expenses.
Cardiologists emphasize that influenza can, in rare cases, lead to serious heart complications, particularly in adults with underlying health issues.
Dr. Alicia Marlowe, a cardiologist at the University Medical Center in New York, said, “Severe influenza infections can trigger inflammation in the heart, leading to myocarditis or cardiac arrest.
Prompt medical intervention is critical for patient survival and long term recovery.”
Public health specialists also note the importance of vaccination and timely treatment for seasonal flu.
“While most flu cases are mild, complications affecting the heart or lungs can be life-threatening, even for otherwise healthy adults,” said Dr. Jason Rivers, an epidemiologist with the National Center for Disease Control.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza related complications result in approximately 12,000 to 52,000 deaths annually in the United States, with a significant portion involving cardiovascular events.
Hospitalizations due to flu complications are highest among adults over 65, but severe cases among younger adults, though less common, are increasingly reported in recent years.
“Cardiac complications related to viral infections, including influenza, remain a significant public health concern,” Dr. Marlowe said. “Early detection, supportive care, and close monitoring can improve outcomes.”
Fellow “Big Brother” contestants and fans have shared their support for Lee. Jimmy Heagerty, who aligned closely with Lee on the show, posted on Instagram “Mickey is a fighter, and I know she’s going to come back stronger than ever. Until then, let’s show up for our girl in every way we can.”
Other former contestants expressed similar sentiments. Rachel Reilly, a previous “Big Brother” winner, wrote, “Prayers Mickey. Thinking about you and your family.”
Ashley Hollis, the season 27 winner, added on social media platform X, “Sending her whole family love this holiday season but per Jimmy it sounds like Mickey is in stable condition.”
Fans and supporters have also contributed to the GoFundMe campaign to help with medical expenses, highlighting the outpouring of public concern. Medical experts caution that recovery from multiple cardiac arrests can be prolonged and complex.
“Patients who experience repeated cardiac events often require extended ICU care and cardiac rehabilitation,” Dr. Marlowe said. “Recovery can take weeks to months, and support from healthcare professionals and loved ones is essential.”
While Lee’s immediate condition is described as stable, doctors and her family emphasize the importance of monitoring and ongoing treatment to prevent further complications.
Mickey Lee, the 27th season “Big Brother” contestant, remains under intensive medical care after suffering multiple cardiac arrests linked to flu related complications.
The incident underscores the potential severity of influenza and its possible impact on heart health, even among younger adults. Friends, fans, and former colleagues have expressed support and concern as Lee begins a challenging recovery process.
