Emily In Paris star Ashley Park says it’s a ‘miracle’ she made it onto the show after battling leukemia and sepsis – as she credits her boyfriend for saving her life

Emily In Paris star Ashley Park says it's a 'miracle' she made it onto the show after battling leukemia and sepsis - as she credits her boyfriend for saving her life

As a lifestyle expert with a profound appreciation for resilience and perseverance, I find Ashley’s story to be nothing short of inspiring. Her journey, marked by two significant health challenges, is a testament to her indomitable spirit and the power of love and support from those around us.


Ashley Park, the star of Emily in Paris, expressed amazement at her ability to join the show given her previous struggles with leukemia and sepsis.

In a fresh comeback, the actress, aged 33, is back on our screens, portraying singer Mindy Chen, in the fourth installment of the popular Netflix series. She’s exploring life in Paris alongside her closest friend Emily, who is played by Lily Collins.

Though Ashley’s charming persona seemed to lead a relaxed existence in the vibrant city of Paris, reality painted a different picture. In truth, Ashley faced significant struggles, bravely battling against two potentially fatal illnesses in her actual life.

In a recent conversation, Ashley shares insights about her past health struggles, expressing that conquering those afflictions fortified her spirit and fueled her resolve to accomplish her aspirations.

In my own words, I wholeheartedly acknowledge the pivotal role my partner, Paul Forman, has played in my journey. It’s not an exaggeration to say that he’s been instrumental in preserving my existence; I truly believe I wouldn’t be standing here today without him by my side.

Emily In Paris star Ashley Park says it's a 'miracle' she made it onto the show after battling leukemia and sepsis - as she credits her boyfriend for saving her life

Emily In Paris star Ashley Park says it's a 'miracle' she made it onto the show after battling leukemia and sepsis - as she credits her boyfriend for saving her life

As a teenager, Ashley was found to have blood cancer. Initially, she thought her symptoms were just “growing pains,” which caused a delay in seeking help.

In an episode of My First Time podcast, she shared: ‘It’s mind-blowing to see myself as the woman I am today; it feels incredibly complete. Just before Christmas, I received a life-changing diagnosis. Back then, I danced and participated in numerous activities, which often made me late for classes due to my struggle with climbing stairs on time. I had bruises all over and had lost a significant amount of weight. However, at 15, everyone is going through changes. I remember thinking, “Wow, this must be my growth spurt, shedding off all the baby fat”.’

Following the dismissal of her symptoms, Ashley eventually sought advice from the school pediatrician. There, she underwent a blood test and was promptly advised by the doctor to rush to the emergency room without delay.

Following her admission to the hospital, Ashley stayed for a duration of eight months while receiving treatment. Regrettably, during this period, she lost her cherished hair.

During her cancer therapy, Ashley received a wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Instead of choosing something else, she decided to travel to New York and watch a Broadway performance.

It was in this very place where her passion for musical theater ignited. The actress, undeterred by her health condition, vowed not to let it restrict her path towards fulfilling her aspirations.

After recuperating, she successfully took the lead role of Millie Dillmount in her school’s rendition of Thoroughly Modern Millie. Notably, Ashley adorned wigs crafted from her own locks while performing on stage.

Upon my discharge from the hospital, I resolved within myself, “I refuse to let this experience shape my identity permanently, and one day I will grow my hair long again, leaving no trace of this ordeal.” However, in retrospect, it has indeed left an indelible mark on me, even as I had wished otherwise. I was diagnosed with adult leukemia, a more aggressive form that progresses quicker. Yet, I view it as a blessing because the treatment regimen was incredibly vigorous, condensing what would have been a three-year protocol into a more concentrated battle.

Emily In Paris star Ashley Park says it's a 'miracle' she made it onto the show after battling leukemia and sepsis - as she credits her boyfriend for saving her life
Emily In Paris star Ashley Park says it's a 'miracle' she made it onto the show after battling leukemia and sepsis - as she credits her boyfriend for saving her life
Emily In Paris star Ashley Park says it's a 'miracle' she made it onto the show after battling leukemia and sepsis - as she credits her boyfriend for saving her life

Ashley mentioned that she had initially thought theater wasn’t an option for her as a career, but following her battle with cancer, her parents encouraged her to pursue whatever she desired.

After overcoming a health issue and starting her career following her appearance on the Netflix series, Ashley encountered another challenge recently when she fell ill with sepsis.

During a romantic vacation with her boyfriend and acting partner, Paul (who portrays Nicolas de Leon), she unexpectedly fell ill. As a result, Ashley was rushed to Dubai for medical attention, thus separating her from her dear ones.

At a given point, the television host posted pictures showing her connected to various medical equipment in a hospital, following her admission due to a severe condition known as “septic shock” which had affected her internal organs. By her side throughout this ordeal was Paul, expressing his affection.

Ashley expressed her gratitude by stating, “To be honest, I consider myself incredibly fortunate. My recovery has been almost like a miracle, and I’m certain I wouldn’t have managed it without him. Everyone else seemed to be on the opposite side of the globe.”

Emily In Paris star Ashley Park says it's a 'miracle' she made it onto the show after battling leukemia and sepsis - as she credits her boyfriend for saving her life
Emily In Paris star Ashley Park says it's a 'miracle' she made it onto the show after battling leukemia and sepsis - as she credits her boyfriend for saving her life
Emily In Paris star Ashley Park says it's a 'miracle' she made it onto the show after battling leukemia and sepsis - as she credits her boyfriend for saving her life

At that point, Ashley revealed her difficulties to her 2.8 million Instagram followers by posting striking images taken from her hospital bed.

Reflecting upon the initial weeks of 2024, I find myself deeply moved by a sense of gratitude. As someone who has weathered many storms and navigated through challenging times, this year has offered a beacon of hope amidst the chaos. The experiences and lessons from my past have prepared me for these moments, allowing me to appreciate the blessings that present themselves in the present. This year’s start has been a gentle reminder of the beauty that can emerge from adversity, and I am grateful for every moment of it.

During my vacation over Christmas and New Year’s, a simple case of tonsillitis unexpectedly developed into a severe infection known as septic shock. This infection spread to and impacted multiple organs within my body. Remarkably, I have made a recovery beyond what was initially anticipated.

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2024-08-19 10:49

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