Princewill Pius
The Forrest Gump actor, whose birthday is in July, is nearing 64 years old, a number that falls into the age bracket heath officials have warned is more prone to the virus. According to CNN, the CDC says that “older adults,” or anyone over the age of 60, are more likely to contract the illness. While it’s possible for kids and younger adults to catch COVID-19, it’s more dangerous for older people or those with weaker immune systems.
Not only does Tom Hanks hit the age range, but he also has another qualifier that makes him more at risk: He has a chronic illness. According to USA Today, people with pre-existing health conditions are predisposed to contracting coronavirus. For Hanks, that chronic illness is diabetes.
In 2013, the actor disclosed he has type 2 diabetes on The Late Show With David Letterman, per Today. The diagnosis came after years of struggling with high blood sugar. At the time, he put the audience at ease about his diabetes diagnosis, saying, “It’s controllable… Something’s going to kill us all, Dave.”
Despite the ongoing panic, Hanks has continued to calmly keep followers informed. He posted an update on March 12 that he and Wilson are “taking it one-day-at-a-time” while in isolation in Australia. On March 15, Hanks shared a heartwarming pic of a stuffed kangaroo with Vegemite toast, writing, “Thanks to the Helpers. Let’s take care of ourselves and each other.”
Written by: Nicki
