Céline Dion Opens Up About Her Battle with Stiff-Person Syndrome
Céline Dion is sharing an intimate look into her health journey in the new documentary I Am: Celine Dion, set to release on Prime Video next month, Excel Magazine International reports.
Nearly two years after revealing her diagnosis of stiff-person syndrome, the iconic singer’s struggle with the rare neurological disorder is being candidly explored.
In a revealing interview with Hoda Kotb, Dion disclosed how the disease nearly claimed her life.
Hoda Kotb, whose interview with the singer airs ahead of the documentary’s release on June 11 at 10 p.m. on NBC, explained on Today May 23. “It was so jarring to me and moving—I couldn’t believe what they were able to capture in that documentary.”
The trailer features clips of Dion’s consultations with medical professionals interspersed with nostalgic footage from her early performances.
In a poignant voiceover, Dion expresses the difficulty of her situation, particularly her inability to perform. “It’s not hard to do a show now; it’s hard to cancel a show,” she says.
“I’m working hard every day, but I have to admit—it’s been a struggle. I miss it so much. The people. I miss them. If I can’t run, I’ll walk. If I can’t walk, I’ll crawl. I won’t stop.”
Despite her challenges, Dion remains determined to return to the stage. “I think we did create our own magic,” she reflects, looking back on her past performances.
Her resilience is further highlighted by her statement, “I see my life, and I love every piece of it,” metaphorically likening her life to a beloved pair of shoes that she always makes fit.
Dion has been largely absent from the spotlight during her health journey, but she made a notable appearance at the 2024 Grammy Awards to present Taylor Swift with the Album of the Year award.
The event marked her first major public appearance since her diagnosis, and she was met with a standing ovation.
The COVID-19 pandemic had previously forced Dion to pause her Courage World Tour in 2020, with plans to resume in 2022.
However, her health issues led to further postponements. A note on her website explained that she had been dealing with severe and persistent muscle spasms, delaying her return to the stage.
In a heartfelt statement, Dion said, “I need to be in top shape when I’m on stage. I honestly can’t wait, but I’m just not there yet… I’m doing my very best to get back to the level that I need to be so that I can give 100 percent at my shows because that’s what you deserve.”
Excel Magazine International learnt that Stiff-person syndrome is a rare and progressive disorder characterized by stiff muscles in the torso, arms, and legs, along with heightened sensitivity to noise, touch, and emotional distress, all of which can trigger muscle spasms.
Dion has been working diligently with her sports medicine therapist to regain her strength and performance ability.
Dion’s music career continues to thrive despite her health battles.
She recorded five songs for the rom-com Love Again, which premiered on May 5, 2023.
Dion also made a cameo in the film, her first acting role, adding another milestone to her illustrious career.
