‘Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills’ Star Yolanda Foster Reveals Gigi Hadid, Bella, Anwar Kept Her Alive Amidst Lyme Disease Battle

Models Gigi Hadid (L) and Bella Hadid pose for photos backstage before the Tommy Hilfiger Spring/Summer 2016 collection presentation during New York Fashion Week in New York, September 14, 2015. Reuters/Andrew Kelly

Over the past few years, Yolanda Foster had to deal with several personal challenges, including a battle with Lyme disease. In a recent interview, the reality star opened up about her journey and how her children played a critical part in keeping her alive.

The “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star was very candid during her interview with Dr. Oz on Tuesday, Mar. 1, E! News reported. Yolanda shared her struggles with Lyme disease and that her three children Gigi Hadid, Bella and Anwar helped to keep her strong. The former model was diagnosed with the disease in 2012.

Foster told Dr. Oz that her children “kept [her] alive” during the dark moments of her battle with Lyme disease. Yolanda also recounted the time when she gave Gigi, Bella and Anwar a hug after waiting for them to get out of school. She shared that she looked at her children “for hope” and that they were the reason why she kept on fighting.

“There were many days that I really didn't want to live anymore. But when you look at your children it's not a choice anymore, right? You have to. You have to get through. You have to keep fighting and searching to get well,” Yolanda added.

Yolanda also mentioned how her sickness forced her children to grow up faster. She recalled the times when Gigi had to drive her to the hospital at odd hours in the night, with Bella and Anwar in the backseat. David Foster’s former wife stated that her children “learned to take charge” and became her source of strength during hard times.

Meanwhile, the TV personality also shared some details about her relationship with David during her interview with Dr. Oz, Us Weekly magazine reported. Yolanda stated that going through her battle with Lyme disease has changed her. She explained that she was not the same woman that she used to be.

“David never changed, I changed. Unfortunately, these are the cards that life dealt me. It wasn't by choice. But I'm not the woman I used to be and I probably will never be again,” she added.

David and Yolanda announced their separation in December 2015, after four years of marriage.