My bagpipes dream landed me thousands of followers. A rare chronic illness left me unable to play
BBC World
February 18, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Katie Robertson’s journey with postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS), a rare chronic illness, has taken an unexpected turn after she gained thousands of followers online through her passion for bagpipes. Diagnosed only after multiple visits to her GP and local hospital, Katie found herself unable to play the instrument she once loved due to the physical toll POTS took on her body. Her story highlights the challenges of navigating a rare condition while grappling with the realities of chronic illness.
Postural tachycardia syndrome, often referred to as POTS, is a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in heart rate when standing up. It can cause symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, and extreme fatigue, which are often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. Katie’s experience reflects the struggles many patients face in obtaining a correct diagnosis, with her journey taking months of frustration before she finally received the right medical attention.
Despite her health challenges, Katie found a silver lining through social media. After posting a video of herself playing bagpipes, she unexpectedly gained thousands of followers who admired her resilience and talent. However, this newfound fame came at a cost, as she also faced online harassment from individuals who doubted her condition. Her story serves as a reminder of the double-edged nature of internet fame, where support and criticism often go hand in hand.
Katie’s case is not isolated; rare chronic illnesses like POTS affect millions worldwide but remain underdiagnosed and misunderstood by both the medical community and the public. By sharing her experience, Katie has become an advocate for greater awareness and understanding of these conditions. Her story also underscores the importance of social media in amplifying voices that might otherwise go unheard, even if it comes with its own set of challenges.
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on BBC World on 2/18/2026