Life in Fast Forward: A Conversation with Megumi Okina on the Blur of Busy Years
Debuted in the entertainment world at the age of 13 and became one of the top young actresses of the 1990s - now she is continuing treatment for vitiligo, a condition with no known cure, and releasing a photo book for the first time in 15 years.
From loneliness to becoming a mother and gaining her beloved family, Okunai’s life took a sudden turn when she was struck by a disease called “vitiligo.”
“I found out about the disease three years ago. I noticed that a part of my body was turning white and went to the hospital, where the doctor diagnosed me with vitiligo. It wasn’t just the disease itself, but also the reality that my job might be affected because of it, that left me speechless and unable to think. I couldn’t easily come to terms with it.”
Vitiligo is a disease known to have affected Michael Jackson as well, and there is still no fundamental cure for it.
“My condition is progressive, and it’s uncertain if it will be completely cured. There aren’t many treatment options available, so for now, I have to manage it. I use ointments, take medication, and undergo light therapy. Fortunately, I don’t experience worsening health, so I monitor the condition and adapt accordingly.”
She publicly disclosed her illness on her social media last year, which sparked significant reactions.
“To be honest, I didn’t intend to disclose it. I was hesitant because I’m frequently in the public eye, and I worried it might affect my work. But there was an opportunity to explain the cosmetics I produced, and it felt unnatural to sell them without mentioning vitiligo. I had been thinking about it for a while, and I decided on the day of the post. I received words of support from people struggling with similar illnesses, and I was surprised by the overwhelming response. Because vitiligo is still relatively unknown, some people face bullying or discrimination because of it. I felt it was important to raise awareness, and I’m glad I made the decision to disclose it.”
On April 3 this year, she released her first photo book in 15 years, “Okina Megumi” (Takarajimasya). The book, which includes bold cuts, has been attracting a great deal of attention.
“At first, when I was approached about the photo book, my initial reaction was, ‘Is it really okay for me?’ But after consulting with those around me, they encouraged me to give it a try. Due to the effects of my illness, there are limitations on what parts of my body I can expose, so I had to prepare myself. However, I believe this collection is more challenging than ever before.”
In her youth, she dedicated her life to the entertainment industry. And now, having accepted her illness, her “It’ll be okay” days continue into the future.
