Canadian singer Celine Dion has shocked fans with the revelation that she has been living with Stiff Person Syndrome for the past 17 years.
In a candid interview with Hoda Kotb on the Today Show, Dion opened up about her struggle with the rare neurological disorder, which she kept secret for many years.
Dion shared that she first began experiencing symptoms in 2008 but only disclosed her diagnosis in 2022.
During this period, she was also managing the cancer battle of her late husband, René Angélil, while raising their children.
The decision to go public with her illness was driven by the immense burden of keeping it hidden from her fans and loved ones. “We did not know what was going on [with me].
I did not take the time… I should have stopped and figured it out,” Dion explained. She described the challenging period of trying to maintain her career and personal life while grappling with her declining health.
“And like it wasn’t enough, my husband as well was fighting for his own life. I had to raise my kids, I had to hide, I had to try to be a hero – while feeling my body leaving me. [I was] holding on to my own dreams.”
Despite her health challenges, Dion remains determined to continue performing, vowing to return to the stage even if she has to “crawl” or use her hands to communicate.
Her journey with Stiff Person Syndrome is documented in her upcoming documentary, “I Am: Celine Dion,” set for release on June 25. The documentary provides an in-depth look at her battle with the disorder and her resilience in the face of adversity.
