Netflix star loses 'most of her leg' after 'severe infection'

RuPaul's Drag Race star Jiggly Caliente has lost most of one leg after being hospitalised last month

Jiggly Caliente, real name Bianca Castro, has lost most of her right leg due to a 'severe infection', according to a heartbreaking statement. The RuPaul's Drag Race star was hospitalised last month following a 'serious health setback', with her family now revealing that her recovery process will be 'extensive'.

In an Instagram post today, the family said: "The family of Bianca Castro, known to many as the beloved drag performer Jiggly Caliente, is heartbroken to share that over the last month Bianca has experienced a serious health setback.

"Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalised and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg. Because of these circumstances, Bianca will not be appearing in the upcoming season of RuPaul's Drag Race Philippines, nor will she be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future.

"Her recovery will be extensive." Jiggly's family kindly asked for privacy while navigating these challenging circumstances. They concluded: "At this time, we kindly ask for privacy for Bianca and her family as they navigate this difficult journey together.

"While Jiggly concentrates on healing, we invite her friends, fans, and community to uplift her with messages of hope and love on her social media channels. Bianca's family and drag house are deeply grateful for the continued outpouring of support, strength, and prayers."

Jiggly is a singer, actress, LGBTQ+ rights advocate and drag performer best known for featuring in RuPaul's Drag Race season four and series six of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars. The star, 44, has been showered with support from fellow drag performers following the statement's release.

Jujubee said: "I love you so much. Can't wait to see you again," while Ginger Minj wrote: "Sister, I love you more than words can say. You're always on my mind and I'm sending you all the good thoughts in the world!"

Marina Summers also added: "Love you ate. Sending all love to you and your family! We are here for youuu," as Shrinkle chimed in: "I'm so sorry you are going through this! But so glad you are alive.

"Sending all my love and wishing you a speedy recovery so I can see that beautiful face again."

Although it's unclear what infection Jiggly is battling, this isn't her first hospitalisation encounter. In 2015, she also told Xtra about a previous health scare that flipped her life upside down.

"I had a health scare two years ago and I ended up in the hospital, so ever since then my eating has changed," she said at the time. "Now I love mashed potatoes, but I don't necessarily eat them with fried chicken all the time anymore, you know? "It came to a point where I said, 'I'm not the skinny, gorgeous girl. I'm the big gorgeous girl. Get it!'"

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