Céline Dion recently opened up about her diagnosis of stiff person syndrome in an interview with Hoda Kotb. The Grammy winner spoke about the burden of hiding her health issues and feeling like she was lying to her fans. Dion first shared her diagnosis in December 2022, when she announced that she was postponing tour dates due to the rare neurological disorder, which causes muscle stiffness and sensitivity to noise, touch, and emotional distress. She described feeling like she was losing control of her body and struggling to hide her symptoms while trying to maintain her career and be there for her family.
In the interview, Dion explained that the early signs of the disorder appeared during her “Taking Chances World Tour” in 2008, when she noticed difficulty controlling her voice and muscle stiffness. She admitted that she did not take the time to rest and understand what was happening to her, as she needed to continue performing and taking care of her family while her late husband was battling his own health issues. Dion described the physical pain she experiences when she tries to sing, comparing it to being strangled, and revealed that the disorder has caused broken ribs and stiffness in her hands and feet, making it difficult for her to move.
Despite her struggles with stiff person syndrome, Dion remains uncertain about when she will return to the stage. She told Vogue France in April 2024 that she has been indecisive about her comeback for years and that she will listen to her body to determine when she is ready to perform again. The singer’s upcoming documentary, “I Am: Celine Dion,” will provide a more in-depth look at her health issues and personal life, shedding further light on her journey with the neurological disorder.
Dion’s decision to share her diagnosis publicly was driven by a desire to be honest with her fans and relieve herself of the burden of hiding her health issues. She expressed regret for not taking the time to address her symptoms earlier and emphasized the importance of self-care and listening to her body. The singer’s forthcoming interview with Hoda Kotb will delve into her experiences with stiff person syndrome and offer insight into the challenges she has faced while managing her health and career.
Through her candid discussions about her health struggles, Céline Dion is bringing awareness to stiff person syndrome and highlighting the importance of prioritizing self-care and seeking help when facing health challenges. Her openness about her experiences with the disorder serves as a source of inspiration for others dealing with chronic illnesses and encourages individuals to prioritize their well-being. Dion’s upcoming documentary and interview will provide a more intimate look at her journey with stiff person syndrome and shed light on the impact of the disorder on her personal and professional life.
