Céline Dion is one of the most widely known singers and entertainers worldwide. Her 4 decades-long career has earned her insurmountable fame and wealth, thanks to her unique yet breathtaking voice. In 2022, she was diagnosed with a rare disorder known as Stiff-Person Syndrome. The condition prompted her to create a documentary following her health battles, including heartbreaking footage of the beloved star suffering from seizures.
Devastating News
Céline Dion is known for her powerful voice and moving music, captivating the world with her English and French pop ballads. Furthermore, the star has always maintained a phenomenal figure, taking great care of herself and her body. However, no amount of care could prepare her for, or prevent, the devastating news she was given in 2022.
Read More: Celine Dion Health Update: Star’s Family Says Her Condition is “Impossible to Control”
Céline Dion’s Rare Condition
Céline was diagnosed with a rare condition called Stiff-Person Syndrome. Although medical professionals still have several questions regarding the condition, Dion was given some clarity regarding her “frequent spasms”. According to the star, the condition makes walking, and sadly, using her vocal cords challenging. As a result, she’s had to cancel shows and events.
Céline Dion Documents Her Struggles
In May 2024, Dion released the trailer for her documentary, I Am: Céline Dion. “I have to admit it’s been a struggle. I miss it so much. The people, I miss them. If I can’t walk, I’ll crawl. And I won’t stop. I won’t stop,” Dion said in the trailer. The documentary aired on Prime on June 25, 2024, and followed the beloved star’s health struggles. Although much of the footage was painful for fans to watch, one particular incident left fans in tears as it showed her having a seizure, one symptom of her condition.
Read More: Céline Dion Hopes For ‘a Miracle’ For Stiff Person Syndrome
A Terrifying Scene
In the heartbreaking clip, Céline Dion is seen lying in a hospital or “therapy” bed and is being assisted by doctors and therapists as she experiences a full-blown seizure on camera. Additionally, she’s seen sobbing and moaning as her entire body tensed up, muscles spasming. Moments later, after a few doses of nasal spray, her spasms stopped and she was able to relax.
Cause of the Episode
The cause of Céline Dion’s on-camera seizure was “overstimulation.” Purportedly, the star had just been working in the studio and was “thrilled by her progress.” While the footage was difficult for fans to watch, many commended her for her bravery in being so vulnerable in front of fans.
Fans Comment on Céline Dion’s Bravery
“ Céline allowed herself to be filmed to raise awareness for Stiff Person Syndrome and to explain to her millions of fans what she’s been dealing with… starting 17 years ago. She didn’t have to be this vulnerable and put it all out there like this but she’s a brave and incredible person. She’s truly iconic… not only as a singer but as a role model,” said one fan.
“Respect. I appreciate Celine for being vulnerable & sharing. Celebrity or not, no one deserves to suffer like this,” commented another. Meanwhile, a third pointed out that Céline Dion nobly used her fame. “Celebrities spend boatloads of money to maintain a flawless and perfect image. Celine allowing us to see her like this in her sickest and most vulnerable state is so brave and such a selfless act. Hopefully, it can raise awareness of this horrible disease and to all those struggling through life will debilitating disabilities,” they said.
Cluadette’s Unwavering Admiration
Before the documentary was released of the documentary, Céline Dion’s sister, Claudette, spoke to 7 Jours Magazine regarding the status of the star’s condition. “‘She’s working hard, but she doesn’t have control over her muscles. What breaks my heart is that she’s always been disciplined,” Claudette explained. “She’s always worked hard. Our mother always told her, ‘You’re going to do it well, you’re going to do it properly.”
Mysterious Condition
Unfortunately, the condition is rare, about 1 in a million, and scientists don’t have enough data to predict every aspect. Céline does have a team of doctors working on her care. However, progress to find a cure has been slow. According to the NIH, the condition is caused by a “disruption in communication pathways from the brain to the muscles, which turn rigid or stiff.” Common symptoms also “include the risk of falling down or problems with breathing.”
Read More: Céline Dion’s Grown-Up Son René-Charles Took Our Breath Away
Sources
- “Céline Dion Experienced Seizures In ‘Heartbreaking’ Footage Of Singer’s Documentary Film Chronicling Her Health Battle.” Apost. June 28, 2024.
- “Céline Dion’s diagnosis helps people with rare disorder.” BBC. Paul Pigott. June 19, 2024.
- “Céline Dion opens up about stiff person syndrome diagnosis following Grammys appearance.” USA Today. Jay Stahl. March 16, 2024.