Toni Braxton opens up about her lupus-related health emergency

Grammy-award winning singer Toni Braxton reveals she experienced a life-threatening health scare after living with lupus for more than 15 years and shares how she is partnering with Aurinia Pharmaceuticals to encourage people to prioritize their kidney health. “If I had not done that appointment, I would not be here today talking to you guys,” Braxton tells Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager.
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#tonibraxton #lupus #health

[@chelee8804]

Thank you Toni Braxton for spreading the word about health for people of color. I’m SO glad that you listened to your body & are still here with us.😍👸🏽🤩

[@adale2771]

I wonder if her lupus affects her speech , as in her breathing. She sounds like she’s running out of breath when she’s speaking .

[@LP-fz5xm]

And women

[@kimf442]

Omg I n the same situation blessings to you Toni ❤

[@rashelelashley]

For people of colour...yet she bleached her skin to look whiter 🤣🤣 whatever!

[@karyminamyning2972]

@@rashelelashley she snot bleaching check her clips when she was younger

[@zamo9266]

55😱. Toni is more gorgeous now than when she started. Love her❤🙏🏽✨

[@michaelgreen6502]

Toni look mid 30’s. I see 55 nowhere 🤷🏽‍♂️🤷🏽‍♂️ 😂😂❤❤

[@lb1798]

She looks like she had a face lift. Her eyes look different. I noticed that when she was on the Sherri show.

[@michaelgreen6502]

@@lb1798 ain’t nothing wrong with a hit here and there 🤣

[@lb1798]

@@michaelgreen6502 That's true....but when people say she's 50 but looks 30....that's cheating.

[@joannajohnson2669]

Ohhh I know just gorgeous ❤

[@darnitthelma4247]

@@michaelgreen6502more than a hit

[@carolynlong8701]

Toni looks amazing and thank God she is still here ❤🙏🏾

[@stacie4635]

She does she look like Vanessa Bryant

[@rashelelashley]

​@@stacie4635 Plastic surgery

[@adale2771]

I wonder if her lupus affects her speech , as in her breathing. She sounds like she’s running out of breath when she’s speaking .

[@carolynlong8701]

@@adale2771 yes she did sound like that or she had her nose fixed 🙏🏾

[@nikk5002]

@@lana2658 you’re just jealous of her beauty

[@vincentball327]

I'm so glad she uses her platform to educate others. it really shows how caring she is.

[@m.layfette6249]

I was diagnosed with Lupus back in 2015 and since that day I have about a dozen surgeries and medical procedures. I have told myself that if my Bad days can weigh out my Worst days, then I can go about my life. I am grateful for Toni Braxton using her celebrity to promote Lupus 💜 Awareness. It is a horrible shadow disease that does Not discriminate between what's considered healthy and unhealthy. Lupus has and continues to breakdown my body from the inside out. To all of my fellow Lupus 💜 Warriors...May God grant you the strength, courage and wisdom to continue Your journey for others to follow.

[@Iam_highmaintenancebeauty]

I send you nothing but blessings from this day forward to you ❤❤

[@walkandtalkwithvette]

I'll will say a prayer for you right now 🙏🏽

[@adale2771]

I wonder if her lupus affects her speech , as in her breathing. She sounds like she’s running out of breath when she’s speaking .

[@m.layfette6249]

@@adale2771 Lupus does not discriminate in how it attacks your body. So it would not surprise me in the least if Lupus is affecting Toni's vocal cords and lung capacity in any way shape or form. You also have to take into account,that Toni has been in the music business most (if not all) of her life. Her vocal and octave range is phenomenal. However, over the years singing takes its toll on your vocal cords. A friend of mine is a famous performer in local venues. Her years of signing in the church choir out a major a strain on her vocal cords. To the point that she was told not sing or even hum for almost a year (if not longer.) Sadly this news came when she was pregnant with her first child. What she did was play recordings of her signing when her child was a baby. That rest was daunting but well worth it in the long term.

[@diamondeyezs9141]

I agree I have LUPUS I thank GOD that I’m still here through the up and down he has brought me through it for 22 years I’m still here I give all my Glory to GOD i just stay prayed up 💎🦋💜💙

[@marjoriecoleman8280]

Toni looks fabulous, I’m glad she decided to go to that appointment. It saved her life! 🙏🏾 Loved this interview, I can tell she was very comfortable being interviewed. ❤💕

[@dsmith9709]

Looks are deceiving, We should'nt judge people by their looks.

[@bluepeter128]

She does.

[@cjking4511]

@@dsmith9709 Not really. At a certain age if you have even an ounce of common sense you can see what's up with people based on their looks. You cannot fake looking good

[@ScoobyShawn98]

I cant believe we would’ve lost two Braxtons

[@dsmith9709]

@@cjking4511 Wrong. I ran into an old acquaintance in the supermarket and I was surprized to see how "good "she looked. She was obese when I knew her. She lost alot of weight and I complemented her on how good she looked.She said nothing. I mentioned it to a mutual friend who attend church with her. She said "didn't you know she has cancer? The girl had cachexia which is terrible. I should have not say anything because she was wasting away. She passed shortly after.

[@ingeborghiller9356]

Toni Braxton has been my favourite singer for many years. She looks amazing. I wish her all the best!

[@Charlee152]

Our bodies always let us know when something isn't right. I am so glad she went to the appointment. I can't wait to hear her new music.

[@YouKnowImRight99]

I love Toni’s sweet Demeanor. She doesn’t want anyone to worry or feel sorry for her.. she just wants US to be mindful of our health. Her message is so strong ,and so is she! I still listen to her music at least 2 times a week. ❤️❤️❤️

[@jayd8547]

This year makes 30 year since she released her debut album. I’ve been a fan since day 1. We are so glad you’re still with us Toni. You look beyond amazing!

[@brownbagz]

I was diagnosed with Lupus and Fibromyalgia at the age 25 and I turn 57 in two months. I'm glad she made her appointment

[@leslieh761]

Toni looks great even with lupus! May she be blessed with more good healthy days than bad.

[@nellbarfield1739]

Toni Braxton is a strong woman I wish she had talk about her sister Tracy a little more They are a strong family Coming straight out of Baltimore Maryland Coming straight out of Baltimore Maryland

[@saaunique]

Severn, Md

[@halffull66]

I wish they would’ve let her talk more about the health emergency and give her a chance to elaborate on the awareness she is trying to spread.

[@obibraxton2232]

4:22 “I want to be a centennial” I really hope she gets to reach the ripe age of 100 in good health 🙏🏾💖✨

[@soulflowerpeace9236]

I just love her...she's so soft spoken..humble and classy

[@freddy8479]

MY KIND OF LADY!!!🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@kiakutie5231]

Toni is still as beautiful as ever!!! ❤

[@c.m.2973]

Thank God she’s ok. Side note: Toni’s so gorgeous!

[@JackieManso-i3l]

Hi Ms. Braxton, Lupus (SLE) has lived with me for 40 years, and I refuse to let it take over my life. I'm in control of my body and how I live my life. I appreciate you and how you've continued your singing career, raising your son and take care of yourself. Not allowing Lupus to dictate how you live your life. God bless you and your family!! I am an Optician and I worked everyday in spite of how I feel. We never give up on being healthy!

[@bobbymiller8563]

Toni is so Beautiful. Im glad she is doing well now.

[@consciousanfesiashapsnikof8688]

Please say a prayer for those of us battling and coping with SLE/auto-immune disease. I was diagnosed in 2005 but had symptoms since the 1990s. Currently, I am experiencing Inflammation in my eyes which is causing my cornea to erode. I can potentially lose my vision. Depression is a reality especially when we're in pain most days/nights. I know that God is helping me.

[@kimberlykeels8883]

As a Lupus survivor as well, thank you, Toni, for always sharing the struggles we go through. Continued blessings. 🙏🏽💜

[@darkskinss]

Toni looks like a glamorous goddess. As usual.

[@kamariatoure42]

Toni has always looked so beautiful especially considering the type of health conditions and issues she endures. Gorgeous woman

[@sobeliever1638]

Most beautiful 55 year old. This family has been through a lot.

[@rakialogan3372]

Fifty fine only Toni Braxton can say and wear it this gracefully well❤

[@Toneclark-kk6kt]

she is beyond beautiful

[@Reader1984]

Rest In Peace Traci Braxton, gone but not forgotten, forever in the Lord's Care.

[@NellieKAdaba]

Amen

[@JWNS08]

I miss Traci. She is no longer suffering from that terrible cancer.

[@EmorettaRobinson]

I am so glad that Toni went to the Dr's and had that test done. And that she's sharing her diagnosis & journey. She is an icon, talented, creative and a beautiful person. I wish her nothing but the best.

[@Theeonlycortez]

Toni please take better precautions. The culture can’t afford to lose you 🙏🏾

[@boni_traxton9436]

Yessss 😢 we need her

[@cassd4492]

She’s just beautiful. You can tell this disease takes a lot out of her but I’m so glad she continues to push through and it’s good to see her bring awareness to this illness, it’s obstacles and meds that can help. So glad she went to that appointment too because grief can make us overlook taking care of ourselves. Just love her

[@dj9one212]

Imagine losing Toni Braxton right now she would’ve been gone way too soon, that would’ve been extremely devastating, thank God she went to that appointment, take care of your health everyone

[@echance12]

Toni looks so good.. She's really pretty!

[@theorama5711]

I have kidney nephritis due to SLE. I hope they find a CURE for auto immune conditions. Toni has been my inspiration. Thank you Toni🙏🏿

[@ladythetruck733]

Tony is still so gorgeous 💜wow.

[@freddy8479]

MELANIN!!!!!!

[@JzonAzari]

Love how open Tomi is. She’s saving so many loves letting people know it’s ok to not be ok.

[@imdavidjin]

Hoda makes her feel so comfortable i love this!!!

[@timthomas598]

I'm so glad Toni is okay ❤

[@jrgreen7303]

She's my absolute favorite. She's a true fighter. I'm so proud of her. 💚 Stay strong Toni. Stay strong. 💚

[@cortezmiller1899]

Happy that her health is under control. She’s one of my favorite female singers.

[@victoriaallen3753]

I'm very happy she got to that appointment. May God continue to bless her and her family.

[@TheLovely990]

I'm glad Toni Braxton is sharing. Lupus is serious. Listen to your body.❤❤

[@sheliafears591]

The same thing happened to me January 20th…I was diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure after not going to the hospital for months. I am still recovering and ❤️‍🩹 healing. 🙏🏽

[@LaquishaSprings]

I served 12 1/2 in the air force. Clean bill of health. I go to school graduate. land my dream job. Almost a year after I get diagnosed with Lupus. I was so sad and so hurt. I'm finally happy and NOW my health is challenged.

[@BTonTV]

Soooo sooooo thankful that she is still with us! Wishing everyone reading this and not good health ❤

[@lakeishapoteat]

Toni looks so beautiful she is so positive about her sickness and she still is being a advocate speaking on her health still being strong after all she has been through with the death of her sister.

[@naelynn9582]

Toni Braxton is gorgeous!! And so strong happy to hear she's ok

[@CarlaRFowler]

She looks amazing. He does an absolute great job with her self.

[@freddy8479]

MELANIN!!!!!!

[@mr.g797]

Toni will always be THEE LIVING LEGEND,shes so strong and beautiful🥺😍, Also did you guys notice how she quickly talked away from the Traci question, cause she probably knew if she would talk too long about it she would burst into tears😔

[@THEDOORIZCLOSED]

ABSOLUTELY noticed this. I thought they were wrong for asking. Toni said “thats why i wanted to talk ab my lupus and health awareness.” She wasnt there to talk ab Traci. Toni is smart and media trained. Sadly her smile looked fake tho like i can tell shes still hurting. She needs to rest

[@zhyriiibraxton]

y’all i was sobbingggg . at least my girl alive & well. 🫶🏽💘

[@CrystalDominique]

Thank God you took that appointment Toni. It doesn't seem like it's been 30 years since hearing her first single "Love Shoulda Brought You Home" on the radio, which was one of the Top singles from the Boomerang OST. Me and my Dad lost count on how many times we called the radio station to request it. Those were the days for R&B/Soul. Nothing but love for you Toni! 🥰🥰

[@bbgirl6741]

Beautiful lady. Excited bout her new music. Grateful she got help just in time. May she live a long life n finds her true love again.

[@EverydayEboni]

I love ❤️ her, my libra ♎️ sister. I'm glad she's here to talk about it. Thank you God.

[@zoeysosa6361]

I’m so happy Toni went to that appointment ❤️ she is loved and her kids still need her here ❤️😊 god bless the braxtons sisters Rest in peace Tracy it make me sad she can’t tour I wish I can see her live one time

[@artgroupie]

I almost started crying with her. I’m so glad she went to that appointment. We done lost too many legends as of late. This one would’ve hit me different 😭😭😭

[@danielleg2616]

She deserves a caring man that would go above and beyond for her and be by her side thru the bad days

[@truepyt]

Love me some Toni.. wishing her good health and more success ❤✨

[@MikhailTank]

Glad that Toni is well ... sweet, elegant, soulful and warm.

[@guidedstarb.g.328]

Omg she is not aging AT ALL❤️❤️❤️

[@montraedavis2201]

Toni has a catalog of great music. Nothing but prayers🙏🙏

[@abdulal-shaikh648]

I love you Toni! You’re such a warrior! You give me the strength to go on!

[@pualenaisz4403]

Toni Braxton, God bless you and thank God you're doing well! I see the maturity and grace in her interview! Beautiful 55Fine!❤

[@flawlessbabyface]

STILL beautiful. 👑✊🏾❤️

[@makenzee3222]

So glad she’s ok 🙏🏽❤️ PS…this woman is so beautiful its crazy.

[@randy007]

This interview/story was so vulnerable 🙏🏽

[@montaeharris3464]

Thank God Toni is still here with us go and get ur regular check ups at least twice a year lupus and heart disease isn't a joke

[@deronreed2945]

Toni Braxton Is a trooper!! she's been through a lot with her health

[@gregoryparker8199]

I love this woman. Praying for you Toni. My favorite livmusic ing singer. Didn't know she is 55 years old though. Can't wait for the new music!

[@fah232]

Toni is absolutely gorgeous, blessings 🙏🏾

[@KLeonardM]

Glad to see Toni finally talking about her lupus. I know what it's like losing a younger sister to an illness and Toni got out of talking too much about Traci's death. God bless her and good for her. It's not easy.

[@sherrymickey8101]

Toni girl don't you leave us!! We looove you! Glad you listened to your self

[@latasharoddan7202]

I have lupus and It's hard to imagine not being around my kids. I didn't know I had lupus until I was diagnosed with sjogrens, fibromyalgia. Etc. God bless all those battling autoimmune diseases. Thank you Toni for your encouraging words.

[@Sheslays06]

Toni looks AMAZINGLY GORGEOUS ❤!! She is SOO STRONG 🥹❤️!!

[@Same_ol_jee]

Fine as ever !😩 glad she’s still here . Absolutely love Toni Braxton ! ❤️🙏🙏

[@rueben44]

Thank goodness can you imagine if we lost Toni! Wow thank goodness she went in.

[@marceld8961]

God Bless her one of my favorite singers. We love you Toni ❤️. She still so beautiful. I’m 22 years old and love her music. Her and Anita Baker are among my favorites. Both have very similar voices deep and raspy but yet beautiful. My generation need more music like them.

[@nikkiperrymann5522]

Toni stays beautiful. Love The Braxtons❤

[@productionemployee8032]

TIMELESS BEAUTY ❤

[@uniquemonique957]

My lupie sister 💜💜 we are warriors people don't realize how bad this autoimmune disease can be 💜🙏 I'm glad she ok love her 🙏🙏 Stay Strong

[@according2cathy309]

Thank God she’s still with us. The talented mother has been thru it!🙏🏾

[@cherrellsumbler85]

I legit would have been devastated if something happened to her. It was always her and Whitney Houston who's voices spoke to me the most and deepest. I'm so glad she went to that appt and shes following drs orders. ❤❤❤

[@siobhanair2659]

The industry gave Tony such a hard time when she first got sick back in the day, I’m always glad to see her doing well now. 🌸

[@QueenieG13]

Thank God she's here able to talk about it.

[@luxurylifestylemedia9608]

This woman is not just a musician! Toni Braxton is an ICON!! Please come correct, whoever the Caucasian interviewer is. She should not have titled Toni Braxton like that!

[@lana2658]

don‘t cry..

[@ritajit4730]

I've not shared this with anyone, but I've been a Toni fan since she 1st blew up, & about a month ago, I had a nightmare that she had passed 😥 I now see this interview- May God bless & keep her in good health 🙏🏽

[@Dallas3212]

Do you have prophetic dreams?

[@ritajit4730]

@@Dallas3212 Not to my knowledge! But hand on heart, I had that nightmare & woke up out of it, like it was real!

[@Autumn-Rain]

@@Dallas3212 I have prophetic dreams

[@Dallas3212]

@@Autumn-Rain Oh wow. Must be scary and exciting at times.

[@Dallas3212]

@@ritajit4730 Wow!!! Scary. It's like the Universe was sending you downloads to tell you something.

[@len1975]

I pray for my girl and that she is in good health always. Luv you Toni!!!

[@lysajackson6302]

Prayers for you Toni Braxton you are a beautiful soul🙏🏽💜🙏🏽

[@dorisdiggs6147]

Love you Toni❤ God is watching over you.

[@dr.lorianne]

Love her! She’s been through so much and handles it with class and grace. I liked her and Birdman together. They actually made a good looking couple.

[@Autumn-Rain]

Thank God for Toni’s doctor who was adamant and caring.

[@giftsamuel6108]

The beautiful Libra queen, so young. Love you too much toni

[@nr30199]

Glad she is o.k. Toni has been through alot.♥️

[@DivaGeneva]

I love Toni, she is beautiful both inside and out. I read her book and it gave so much insight into how ruthless the music industry can be. I would so love to see her play Carmen Jones. I know she enjoys acting. Maybe one day!

[@Kirwina]

Toni is such a talented and wonderful woman. She looks fantastic for her age

[@jaeeluv]

Keep her here lord. She's a kind soul 💛✨🙏🏿

[@THEDOORIZCLOSED]

NEW MUSIC YESSSS❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉🎉 IM SO EXCITED!!! THANK U TONI

[@catherinefolk9067]

Love You 👑Toni Bratton 💖💖💖

[@sequoyamaisonblacque]

AMAZING, LEGEND❣️ 🙌🏽

[@catskillmc]

Thank God you are here . God bless your heart . God heal your heart,

[@jaslifeunscripted]

Lord, thank you for making her go. I love her.