The Canadian singer Celine Dion has disclosed that she has stiff-person syndrome (SPS), a rare and irreversible neurological condition that causes inflexible muscles.
As a result of the disorder, the affected person becomes immobile and unable to walk, turning them into a “human statue.” Although the illness is incurable, its consequences can be reduced. Dion announced on Instagram that the ailment forced her to postpone all of her scheduled performances. SPS exhibits characteristics of an autoimmune disease, yet its etiology of it is still unknown to science.
Celine Dion’s Instagram post
In a video she shared as a post on Instagram, Dion appeared to be fighting back tears and gave in after some time. She said, “Hello everyone, I’m sorry it’s taken me so long to reach out to you. I miss you all so much and can’t wait to be on stage talking to you in person. 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 to talk about everything that I’ve been going through…It hurts me to tell you that I won’t be ready to restart my tour in Europe in February.”
The five-time Grammy winner then disclosed the diagnosis, stating that one in a million people are affected. In addition, Dion discusses the cause of the woman’s spasms and notes that humanity is still learning about the illness. She added that the spasms interfere with her daily activities even her ability to walk and “not allowing me to use my vocal chords to sing the way I am used to.”
In the past couple of years, there have been numerous unconfirmed allegations about the singer from Quebec being ill. When she postponed her planned March and April North American tour earlier this year, the rumors gained traction. The singer of “My heart will go on” has never before talked openly about her own condition.
‘I have a great team of doctors working alongside me to help me get better and my precious children who are supporting me and giving me help,” Dion said.
In the video’s comments, her supporters left encouraging remarks. One wrote, “Take your time bby, we are here for you. We always will. We love you!! Take your time pls.”
Another comment said, “You gifted many wonderful songs to us and every challenge is a new chance to get stronger. You are an amazing singer. You will overcome this challenge too. Every difficulty comes with its gift. Just stay strong and brave!”