As the NFL offseason focuses on player signings and team strategies, Donna Kelce is using her platform to raise awareness for a cause that affects millions of people over the age of 50—shingles. While her son, Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce, focuses on his football career, Donna has committed herself to educating the public about the often-overlooked, painful condition.
Donna Kelce’s Advocacy for Shingles Awareness
Earlier this year, while Travis Kelce was preparing for a crucial playoff game against the Houston Texans, Donna Kelce was organizing a health-focused event of her own. She teamed up with celebrities Brooke Shields, Gina Torres, and Roselyn Sanchez to host a VIP brunch in Kansas City—not centered on football, but on the urgent need to raise awareness about shingles.
The event was part of GSK’s nationwide THRIVE@50+ campaign, which encourages individuals over 50 to take proactive control of their health. As an ambassador for the campaign, Donna Kelce has been outspoken about the risks of shingles, which she describes as a “painful, blistering rash” that can appear suddenly. “99% of adults over 50 already carry the virus that causes shingles in their body, even though not everyone will develop the disease,” she explains.
Donna is passionate about urging people to seek medical advice, stating, “Ask your doctor or pharmacist about your risk for shingles and about prevention.” For Donna, this cause is deeply personal. During her conversation with Brooke Shields, she shared the emotional toll of seeing loved ones suffer from the disease. “I’ve had a few friends develop shingles. It’s a very painful disease. You miss out on the most precious moments in your life because you’re in pain. If you get this disease, it’s not easy,” she said.
To keep the event lively and engaging, Donna and Gina Torres participated in a fun football toss game, blending entertainment with an important health message. Since joining THRIVE@50+ in September, Donna has remained committed to spreading the word about shingles prevention, stressing, “Everybody needs to take ownership of their health, regardless of age. That’s the most important thing you can do.”
Understanding Shingles
Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. While anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles, the risk increases significantly for those aged 50 and older. Symptoms include a painful rash that blisters, burns, tingles, and can cause flu-like discomfort. In severe cases, shingles can lead to long-term complications, such as chronic nerve pain.
As part of her ongoing advocacy, Donna Kelce is working to ensure that more individuals are informed about the dangers of shingles and are encouraged to take preventive measures, such as discussing vaccination options with their healthcare providers. Through her volunteer work with THRIVE@50+, she continues to use her platform to educate others and promote proactive healthcare.
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