Missy Elliot's Struggle with Grave's Disease.

Rapper Missy "Misdemeanor" Elliot (born Melissa Arnette Elliot).

Missy Elliot has always been one of the most dominant artists in hiphop ever since she debuted in 1997 with "Supa Dupa Fly" which peaked at number one on the U.S. Top R&B/Hip-hop Albums and number three on the U.S. Billboard 200.  She has stood out and maintained longevity in the game due to her unique rap-style and her effortless delivery that blends perfectly over Timbaland's beats (Timbo was her main producer).  

Over the years, however, Missy has been absent from the rap scene, and with good reason.  The emcee was diagnosed with Grave's Disease in 2008.  Grave's is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland, which results in over-production of thyroid hormones.  Missy told People Magazine,  "I was (driving and) trying to put my foot on the brake, but my leg was jumping. I couldn't keep the brake down and almost crashed... I couldn't write because my nervous system was so bad - I couldn't even use a pen." She reported however that she is doing a lot better due to exercising and that she hasn't had to take thyroid medication in close to nine-months.  The exercising has also led to a loss of 30 pounds (lbs).  Sadly, the disease is incurable.  

R&B singer Ciara (Left) with Missy Elliot.

Missy Elliot is set to re-appear in the public's eye as she will be featured in the first episode of the returning  VH1's "Behind The Music" TV series (airing June 29th, 2011 at 10 pm EST).  During the show, Missy will open up about her struggle with the disease, being molested as a child, and rumors.  Missy's episode will also see appearances/interviews by her close friends Ciara, Timbaland, and Mary J. Blige.