Rapper OG Maco recently revealed he is battling a skin-eating disease called necrotizing fasciitis and shared graphic images of his healing process in hopes of inspiring and helping others.
The 26-year-old artist, born Maco Mattox, took to his Instagram Story to share his battle with the disease via photos and short videos. The rapper suffered severe facial disfigurement that appears to affect areas from his neck to his scalp.
“So much healing has [occurred] thanks to God and my doctors that I’m willing to show all a fraction of what I’ve been going through,” Maco wrote over one photo, reports People.
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Maco told his Instagram followers the condition was brought on by being improperly treated for a rash. He's been fighting the disease for the past three months.
Necrotizing fasciitis can be fatal according to the CDC. It is one of the most severe bacterial infections humans can contract. The flesh-eating bacteria reportedly enter "the body through a break in the skin" before destroying the tissues underneath.
The Atlanta rapper said that while he has been in distress due to the illness, he's been saddened most by the fact he's had to face treatment "without the support of the person I love, without most of my ‘friends,’ without anything but my own strength and God."
“Actions are everything," he told his followers. “Believe in those who show you actions worth believing in.”
Maco also shared his fears of losing his entire face to the disease in a now-deleted video. The video was reposted by another Instagram account and can be seen below.
“I’ve been scared a lot, I didn’t know what was going to happen, I didn’t know if I’d lose my entire face — I almost did," the rapper said in the video.
Maco said he was sharing his story to inspire others and shared words of advice for anyone who may find themselves in a similar situation.
“Necrotizing — or any type of flesh-eating bacteria — if you ever get one just keep the faith," he offered. "Follow the regimen your doctors give you.”
The disease is said to be best treated with IV antibiotics or surgery, given select emergencies.
“This is the best it’s looked,” Maco said, referring to his skin's condition. “I hope it gives someone hope.”
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