Ailing Armani Discusses His Health

Filed Under: Armani

Georgio Armani has finally opened up for the first time since he was diagnosed with hepatitis this past June.

The prestigious 75-year-old designer sat down with WWD to discuss his health and his company.

On the silver lining:
"The illness made me understand that you can't joke with your life. For years, I ignored myself completely until I received this blow, which happened for a reason. I realized I had to be more careful. All the stress and mental and physical possibilities take their toll….During my illness, I spent more time in my homes, in Broni, and discovered the pleasure of being with my cats, dogs, and staff. Before, I always felt like a guest in my homes, even if it's tragic to enjoy the things you built thanks to an illness."

On how he's changed since being ill:
"I work shorter hours. I take a break between 1pm and 3pm and try to leave at 6pm….I discovered that sentimental values should be cherished and well-handled. It's important not to go back to being aggressive and nasty once the illness is gone. I will try not to."

On his attitude while sick:
"My priority was to get better. So I tried to avoid inflicting negative thoughts upon myself, like compiling a will. Obviously I did one long ago, and maybe it was time to revise it, but I didn't because my days were centered on taking medicine, resting, being nursed or waiting for my sister to come by with a pudding. You become a bit childish, an aspect that contrasts heavily with my attitude, which is always a bit dictatorial.

Glad to hear he's doing so much better!

[Image via AP Images.]

Posted: September 24, 2009 at 4:00 pm