In an emotional video message to her followers, Celine Dion announced that she had been given the diagnosis of an incurable neurological disease.
The 54-year-old Canadian said in a statement on Instagram: “As you know, I’ve always been an open book. And I wasn’t ready to say anything before – but I’m ready now. I’ve been dealing with problems with my health for a long time. And it’s been really difficult for me to face these challenges and talk about everything that I’ve been going through.”
Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS), which “affects about one in a million persons,” was then confirmed to be Dion’s diagnosis.
A uncommon autoimmune movement condition that affects the central nervous system, SPS is described by the Cleveland Clinic (the brain and spinal cord). In the beginning, the muscles in the trunk of those who have this ailment stiffen, and with time, the legs and other body muscles also become stiff and inflexible.
“While we’re still learning about this rare condition, we now know this is what has been causing all of the spasms I’ve been having. Unfortunately these spasms effect every aspect of my daily life, sometimes causing difficulties when I walk and not allowing me to use my vocal cords to sing the way I’m used to.”
“It hurts me to tell you, today, that this means I won’t be ready to restart my tour in Europe in February. I have a great team of doctors working alongside me to help get better and my precious children, who are supporting me and giving me hope.” she stated in the video.