Mario Testino once said of top model Karolina Kurková: “The proportions of her body and her face, as well as her energy level, make her a model who could fit almost into any moment.” But, as perfect as she sounds, it seems the Czech model has had to overcome huge obstacles to get where she is today.

The now 27 year old recently revealed that she suffered from a thyroid problem a few years ago. Not only did the illness add 30 pounds to her weight, but it also caused a number of other highly unpleasant-sounding side-effects.

The supermodel described her affliction at the CFDA’s A Well Balanced Life panel discussion on Tuesday, saying, “I was 24 and going through menopause – that was one of my side-effects, I thought I was going crazy.

“I was having panic attacks every minute and I didn’t know what was happening, because I’ve been a healthy person. I’ve exercised all my life. I’ve always eaten well and taken care of myself.”

Hearing Kurková’s story has inspired us here at Talent Management – despite struggles in life, her determination has shone through and she is now one of the world’s most successful models.