Celine Dion's Battle with Stiff-Person Syndrome: A Search for Effective Treatment
Celine Dion, the Grammy-winning singer, is grappling with a rare neurological disorder known as Stiff-Person Syndrome, and according to her sister Claudette, they have yet to find a medicine that effectively treats the condition. Claudette recently revealed in an interview that despite their efforts, Celine's health has seen little improvement.
Stiff-Person Syndrome is a progressive neurological disorder that affects approximately one in a million people. It causes stiff muscles in the torso, arms, and legs, and can significantly impact the quality of life of those afflicted.
In May, Celine was compelled to cancel her Courage World Tour following her diagnosis. Claudette believes that this break was necessary for Celine to start her journey towards recovery. "I honestly think that she mostly needs to rest. She always goes above and beyond, she always tries to be the best and top of her game,” Claudette explained. “At one point, your heart and your body are trying to tell you something. It’s important to listen to it.”
Their sister Linda has since moved in with Celine at her Las Vegas home to act as a caretaker. Claudette shared, “When I call [Celine] and she’s busy, I speak to my sister Linda who lives with her and tells me that she’s working hard."
Celine is reportedly consulting with top researchers in the field of this rare disease as much as possible. Despite the lack of improvement in her condition, her family maintains their trust that things will get better for the hitmaker.
Celine revealed her diagnosis in December 2022, noting that she had been dealing with health problems for a long time. The “Because You Love Me” artist had to delay her Las Vegas residency in October 2021 after experiencing “severe and persistent muscle spasms.”
When announcing the cancellation of more than 40 of her tour dates earlier this year, the “My Heart Will Go On” songstress expressed her "tremendous disappointment." She wrote via Instagram, “I’m so sorry to disappoint all of you once again. I’m working really hard to build back my strength, but touring can be very difficult even when you’re 100 [percent]... I want you all to know, I’m not giving up… and I can’t wait to see you again!”
As Celine Dion continues her battle with Stiff-Person Syndrome, her resilience and determination to return to the stage remain undiminished.