Celine Dion is facing a daunting battle with a rare neurological disorder that has left her without control over her muscles, according to her older sister Claudette. The 55-year-old music icon was diagnosed with stiff person syndrome, a progressive and incurable disorder that causes the body to attack its nerve cells.
Last year, Dion was forced to cancel her Courage world tour due to her diagnosis, and her sister believes it may be a while before she can return to the stage, as per Mail Online.
Celine Dion's Health Casts Doubt on Stage Comeback
LAS VEGAS, NV - MAY 21: Singer Celine Dion performs during the 2017 Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena on May 21, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
In an interview with French magazine 7 Jours, Claudette expressed her heartbreak over her sister's condition, mentioning that Celine has always been a disciplined and hardworking individual. Despite the challenges she faces, Claudette hinted at the possibility of a comeback, stating that both she and Celine dream of a return to the stage, although uncertainty surrounds the capacity in which she will perform.
Stiff person syndrome, usually diagnosed in people between the ages of 30 to 50, causes mobility issues and painful muscle spasms. Claudette highlighted the impact of the disorder on the vocal cords and the heart, pointing out that they are both muscles affected by the syndrome.
One of the main challenges in providing effective treatment is the rarity of the disorder, with only a small number of people affected, resulting in limited scientific research.
Dion made her first public appearance in nearly four years at a hockey game in Las Vegas last month, where she shared her diagnosis with fans through an emotional Instagram video. She explained that the spasms caused by the disorder have significantly affected her daily life, making it difficult for her to walk and impacting her singing ability.
Despite the hardships, Celine has received an outpouring of support through the family charity, Fondation Maman Dion. Claudette revealed that many people, both patients suffering from stiff person syndrome and their loved ones, have reached out to express their solidarity and send their prayers.
The foundation has received numerous messages, presents, and blessed crucifixes, reflecting the love and support for Celine during this challenging time, according to New York Post.
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Hope Amid Slow Progress in Celine's Treatment
Although Claudette acknowledged that progress has been slow in finding a cure, she emphasized the importance of maintaining hope. The Dion family has been collaborating with leading researchers in the field to explore treatment options for the disorder. However, Claudette stated that Celine has yet to find a medicine that effectively alleviates her symptoms.
Celine's last performance was in March 2020, and her absence from the stage has been keenly felt by her fans. However, her appearance at the hockey game in October was a welcome sight, as she posed for photos with her sons and hockey players backstage. While the road to recovery may be long and uncertain, Celine's determination to return to the stage remains steadfast.
As Celine continues her battle with stiff person syndrome, the support and well-wishes from fans around the world provide a glimmer of hope.
Messages of love, prayers, and gifts continue to pour in, giving Celine and her family strength during this difficult journey. While the future remains uncertain, Celine's resilience and the unwavering support of her fans will undoubtedly inspire her to keep fighting, Page Six reported.
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