Bruce Willis Finds Joy in Grandfatherhood Amidst Dementia Struggles: 'Baby Louetta Feels Heaven-Sent'
As Bruce Willis grapples with his deteriorating health due to frontotemporal dementia, his first grandchild, Louetta Isley Thomas Willis, has been a beacon of joy for the acclaimed "Die Hard" actor. Rumer Willis, his daughter with Demi Moore, and her partner, musician Derek Richard Thomas, welcomed Louetta into the world in April.
A source close to the family revealed how this bundle of joy has rejuvenated Bruce's spirit. "This baby feels heaven-sent. She’s brought Bruce so much happiness." Being a grandparent seems to have a heartwarming effect on Bruce. "Seeing Bruce as a grandpa is the sweetest thing. He’s always been so good with babies. He’s been making the most of life, but there are challenges," the source said.
Despite his health trials, Bruce's joyful moments with his granddaughter are helping to lift his spirits. "There are tough days and sadness, so having Louetta has been such a blessing for him and the whole family," the insider continued.
Meanwhile, new mom Rumer and her partner Derek are getting accustomed to the usual challenges of parenthood. They are navigating late night feedings and early morning diaper changes, a typical routine for new parents. “Rumer has been joking that she feels love-drunk and sleep-deprived,” shared a close source.
Bruce's joyous grandfatherhood follows a difficult year for his family. It was announced last year that the famed actor was withdrawing from his acting career due to an aphasia diagnosis. Later, this condition advanced into frontotemporal dementia, as his family confirmed earlier this year.
Bruce's wife, Emma Heming, his ex-wife Demi Moore, and their five daughters thanked everyone for their support and love in a joint statement in February. They said, "Our family wanted to start by expressing our deepest gratitude for the incredible outpouring of love, support and wonderful stories we have all received since sharing Bruce’s original diagnosis. In the spirit of that, we wanted to give you an update about our beloved husband, father and friend."
They confirmed, "Since we announced Bruce’s diagnosis of aphasia in spring 2022, Bruce’s condition has progressed and we now have a more specific diagnosis: frontotemporal dementia." They further mentioned, "Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces. While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis."