Celine Dion reveals she has been dianosed with rare incurable neurological disorder
Celine Dion has revealed that she has been diagnosed with a rare, incurable health condition in a heartbreaking update to her fans.
Taking to Instagram, the 54-year-old superstar explained that she has been battling the neurological disorder known as stiff-person syndrome, which causes spasms that stop her from being able to walk or sing.
"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," Celine said addressing her fans in a video statement.
"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 my challenges and to talk about everything that I’ve been going through.
"Recently I’ve been diagnosed with a very rare neurological disorder called the stiff person syndrome which affects 1 in a million people.
"While we’re still learning about this rare condition, we now know this is what’s been causing all the spasms I’ve been having."
"Unfortunately, these spasms affect every aspect of my daily life sometimes causing difficulties when I walk and not allowing me to use my vocal chords to sing the way I'm used to," she continued.
"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 me get better and my precious children who are supporting me and giving me help.
"I’m working hard with my sports medicine therapist every day to build back my strength and my ability to perform again but I have to admit it’s been a struggle.
"All I know is singing it’s what I’ve done all my life and it’s what I love to do the most.
"I miss you so much. I miss seeing all of you being on the stage performing for you.
"I always give 100 per cent when I do my show but my condition is now allowing me to give you that right now.
"For me to reach you again I have no choice but to concentrate on my health at this moment and I have hope that I'm on the road to recovery.
"This is my focus and I’m doing everything I can to recuperate.
"I want to thank you so much for your wishes and love and support on my social media. This means a lot to me.
"Take care of yourselves. Be well. I love you guys so much and I really hope I can see you again real soon."
Fans were quick to share their love and support with the star, with many writing sweet sentiments such as "stay strong! We love you and wish you well" and "we love you Celine. Praying for your recovery & optimal health".
Our hearts go out to Celine as she grapples with this diagnosis and hope that she is able to return to the stage again soon.