Emma Heming Willis Faces Emotional Turmoil as Husband Bruce Willis Confronts Dementia's Challenges
Emma Heming Willis opens up about the emotional burden she carries as her husband, Bruce Willis, faces dementia Despite having access to resources to support him, she grapples with the guilt that comes with witnessing his struggle
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Emma Heming Willis is opening up about the “guilt’ she feels over having access to “resources” amid husband Bruce Willis’ dementia battle.
Heming Willis, 45, wrote in an article for Maria Shriver's Sunday Paper on November 11, that she appreciates the opportunity to clear her mind with a hike, acknowledging that not all care partners have that luxury. She is aware that her family's journey receiving attention in the media means there are countless untold stories that deserve compassion and concern.
Recognizing her privilege, Heming Willis believes it is crucial for her to advocate for those who lack the time, energy, or resources to advocate for themselves. She remains transparent about her challenges in the hopes that it will make others feel acknowledged and supported.
"I want to convey that when I receive communication from another family affected by FTD, I can recognize the parallels between their grief, loss, and immense sadness and the experiences of my own family," she remarked.
The businessperson elaborated that hope is essential in navigating through a familial illness. "Today, I possess significantly more hope than I did when Bruce was initially diagnosed," she revealed. "With a deeper understanding of this disease and a strong network of support, I now have hope in discovering a new purpose. Although it was not something I actively sought out, I am using my platform to assist and empower others."
In March 2022, Heming Willis and Willis' former spouse, Demi Moore, announced that Willis would be stepping away from the public eye while he faced aphasia. Earlier this year, the family disclosed that the actor had received a more detailed diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia. "There are currently no treatments for this illness, a reality we hope will change in the future," they stated on Instagram in February.
Heming Willis, who has two daughters, Mabel (11) and Evelyn (9), with the Die Hard star, has been open about her struggles and triumphs as she continues to support her husband through his health battle. During an episode of the Today show in September, as part of World Frontotemporal Dementia Awareness Week, she shared that having a clearer understanding of Willis' condition is both a blessing and a curse.
"It doesn't lessen the pain, but simply being aware and accepting of Bruce's situation makes it slightly more bearable," she disclosed.
After her appearance on Today, Bruce's daughters, Tallulah Willis (29) and Scout Willis (32), expressed their admiration for their stepmother's resilience on social media. (Bruce has three daughters, Tallulah, Scout, and Rumer Willis (35), with Moore (61). The couple was married for over a decade before separating in 2000.)
“I am incredibly proud of @emmahemingwillis for her bravery in sharing our family’s story with the public, despite how terrifying it may be! Her actions are helping to raise awareness about FTD,” Scout enthusiastically shared on her Instagram Story. “Emma, you are a true champion for this cause and you inspire me every single day.”
According to an exclusive source in April 2022, the unwavering support from their loved ones is what keeps the family going. Bruce is grateful to have them by his side and they are all coming together, which is the most important thing.
Heming Willis, in her article for the Sunday Paper, expresses her hope that she and her loved ones will continue to find joy in the little things and come together to celebrate all the moments life presents, even on difficult days.
"I acknowledge that there is still so much for me to discover about FTD, this community, and the advancements in research on the disease. However, I am slowly finding my way," she stated. "Despite grieving this experience daily, like many others, I am also aware that it has granted me an inner strength that I never believed I possessed."
