Celine Dion's Struggle with Stiff-Person Syndrome: A Loss of Muscular Control
Celine Dion's recent diagnosis of stiff-person syndrome has left her without control over her muscles This condition has had a significant impact on the renowned singer, as she battles this debilitating disorder
Céline Dion's stiff-person syndrome is worsening, but her sister Claudette Dion says the singer is still putting up a fight.
"She's putting in a lot of effort, but she doesn't have control over her muscles," Claudette, 75, shared with Canadian magazine 7 Jours in an interview released on December 12. "It saddens me because she has always been so disciplined. She has always worked so hard. Our mom always told her, 'You're going to do this the right way, you're going to excel.'"
Claudette, herself a musician, observed that both Céline and her family dream of seeing her return to the stage in some way. "In what condition? I don't know," Claudette admitted. "The vocal cords are muscles, and the heart is also a muscle. That's what gets to me. Since it's a rare condition, scientists haven't done much research because it doesn't affect many people."
Céline's sister acknowledged that "some have lost hope because it's a little-known disease." However, Claudette shared that the family receives "many calls" from fans who want to hear from Céline and wish her well.
"People express their love and prayers for her. She is overwhelmed by the messages, gifts, and blessed crucifixes," Claudette revealed.
Céline first opened up about her health struggles in December 2022, revealing that she had to postpone her upcoming shows because of her battle with stiff-person syndrome.
"I apologize for not connecting with you sooner," she expressed in a heartfelt social media video. "I long for your presence and eagerly anticipate the opportunity to engage with you in person. As you are aware, I have always been open and honest, and although I wasn't prepared to share earlier, I am now ready."
The singer of "My Heart Will Go On" elaborated, "I have been grappling with health issues for quite some time, and it has been a significant struggle to confront these challenges and openly address everything I have been experiencing."
Céline disclosed that a "very rare neurological disorder" was causing the spasms she had been experiencing. She explained that she is diligently working with her sports medicine therapist every day to rebuild her strength and ability to perform, though she admitted it has been a struggle. Céline also mentioned that the illness was impacting her vocal cords and other muscles.
During that time, a source exclusively revealed to We that Céline is relying on her three sons, René-Charles, 22, and twins Nelson and Eddy, 13, for support. (The singer shares her boys with her late husband René Angelil, who passed away in January 2016 from throat cancer at age 73.)
“Her kids have been her rock … the twins are very mature for their age and René-Charles checks in and dotes on his mom all the time,” the insider said.
Deal of the Day
Short on Stocking Stuffers? These Wool Socks Are 40% Off and Ship Fast
Check out this exclusive deal!
Since revealing her health status, Céline has mostly kept a low profile, making only a few public appearances. One such outing was in October when she was spotted attending the Vegas Golden Knights hockey game with her sons.
Before the game, the family met with the Canadiens players, and Céline appeared to be in high spirits. She provided a pep talk, urging the athletes to "Just stay healthy, strong… Do what you do best," as shown in a social media video shared by the team.
