Celine Dion, globally renowned singer, announced the cancellation of her remaining tour dates until April 2024 due to her ongoing battle with stiff-person syndrome. The disclosure was made on Thursday, revealing that the health condition hindered her ability to prepare for and execute her performances.
An insider shed light on the actual motive behind the 55-year-old's decision to suspend her tours. According to the source, Dion's primary concern was fairness towards her fanbase, who have supported her unwaveringly since her health diagnosis came to light.
The source exclusively told People that Dion made the difficult decision in the best interest of her fans. Despite the hiatus, the singer remains hopeful for future performances once her health condition improves. "The goal is for her to tour again for sure, but once she is better," the source disclosed. "Right now, she's focusing on her health. She couldn't keep postponing shows - it wasn't fair to the fans."
In a public statement, Dion expressed her regret over the abrupt cancellations, attributing her inability to perform to her medical condition. She reassured her fans that her health team was diligently working on treating the ailment.
The "My Heart Will Go On" songstress first made public her struggle with severe and persistent muscle spasms in October 2021, causing the postponement of her anticipated Las Vegas residency. Yale Medicine explains that stiff-person syndrome, Dion's diagnosis, results in spasms and rigidity in the muscles of the limbs and torso. Triggers can include loud noises, emotional stress, and various other stimuli, although episodes can occur spontaneously.
At this time, the origins of the rare disease remain a mystery, with further research needed for a better understanding of the disorder.
Prior to her current diagnosis, Dion had her share of health challenges. She underwent ear surgery to address patulous eustachian tube dysfunction, a condition affecting her ears. Additionally, speculation around her potentially suffering from an eating disorder has circulated, though Dion has never publicly addressed these rumors in her shows or interviews.