In May 2020, Oscar-winning actress Tatum O'Neal faced a life-threatening crisis. An overdose on a combination of pain medication, opiates, and morphine left her comatose for six weeks and resulted in a diagnosis of aphasia, a language impairment caused by brain damage. Her son, Kevin McEnroe, revealed to People magazine that she also suffered cardiac arrest and multiple seizures, with the family fearing for her survival.
Tatum O'Neal's 2020 overdose resulted in a six-week coma. (Getty Images)
Tatum O'Neal and John McEnroe share three children. (Getty Images)
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated O'Neal's struggles with chronic pain and isolation, contributing to the overdose. Kevin McEnroe described a period of uncertainty during her coma, with concerns about potential blindness, deafness, and permanent speech loss. Upon regaining consciousness, O'Neal was unable to speak and disoriented.
Tatum O'Neal has appeared in films like "The Dark Horse." (Getty Images)
Tatum O'Neal is the youngest person to win an acting Oscar. (Getty Images)
Now, O'Neal is actively pursuing sobriety through rehab, therapy, and 12-step meetings. She acknowledges her lifelong struggle with addiction and emphasizes her ongoing commitment to recovery. Her children view her journey as one of redemption and survival, highlighting her resilience and inspiring others facing similar challenges.
Tatum O'Neal with her children Emily and Kevin. (Getty Images/WireImage)
O'Neal's son Sean describes her recovery as a "double miracle," not only for her physical improvement but also for the positive emotional transformation. Kevin, who had stopped urging his mother towards sobriety since childhood, sees her renewed effort as a miraculous turn of events, leading to a restored family dynamic.
Tatum O'Neal with her children Emily, Kevin and Sean. (Getty Images)
O'Neal's journey, from her early Oscar win for "Paper Moon" to her struggles with addiction and subsequent arrest in 2008, now includes a chapter of recovery and renewed family bonds.
Ryan and Tatum O'Neal in "Paper Moon." (Getty Images)
Tatum O'Neal also starred in films like "The Bad News Bears." (Getty Images)
