Céline Dion's brave battle: Confronting Stiff Person Syndrome
Céline Dion, a music icon, shares intimate scenes of her struggle with a rare neurological disorder known as Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) in the documentary "I Am: Céline Dion". The brutally honest shots and hopeful words of the artist will surely bring many to tears.
Céline Dion, the undisputed icon of the world music scene, has opened up about her dramatic battle with a rare neurological disorder known as Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS).
Since publicly revealing her diagnosis in 2022, the singer has faced the challenges posed by the incurable condition, which gradually limits her ability to perform daily activities, including her greatest passion - singing.
Unfortunately, these spasms affect every aspect of my daily life, sometimes causing difficulties when I walk and not allowing me to use my vocal cords to sing the way I'm used to - says Céline Dion in the documentary.
The shocking scenes from the documentary "I Am: Céline Dion," broadcast on Amazon Prime, show Dion during a ten-minute attack. The artist, choking and exhausted, struggles with painful muscle spasms. We see her as a medical staff desperately trying to ease her suffering.
"Every time something like this happens, it makes me feel so embarrassed," Dion says in the aftermath. "I don't know how to express it, you know, to not have control over yourself."
The spirit to fight for recovery and... back to the stage
Since the diagnosis, Dion consistently tries to lead an everyday life, although SPS gradually limits her abilities. Speaking about her illness, the artist admitted that each episode is a source of shame, especially when it happens in public. Nonetheless, she does not lose hope of returning to the stage and continuing her music career, emphasizing her determination and readiness to overcome further obstacles.
The documentary's director, Irene Taylor, emphasized that Dion was determined to include honest scenes of her struggle with the disease in the film despite their personal and difficult nature. Taylor described how Dion, after an attack, still maintained a good mood, personally caring for her. Such an attitude is perceived among the artist's close ones as extremely heroic.
I still see myself dance and sing. I always find Plan B and Plan C, you know. That’s me. If I can’t run, I’ll walk. If I can’t walk, I’ll crawl. But I won’t stop. I won’t stop - says Céline Dion resolutely.
Céline Dion, known for her immense vocal capabilities and energetic stage performances, now focuses mainly on battling the disease, utilising medical support and the love of her closest ones.
The artist's story, contained in the documentary, which will soon premiere, becomes a symbol of determination and courage in the face of the unknown, inspiring fans worldwide to persevere in their goals despite health challenges.
What is Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS)? What are its symptoms?
Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is a rare neurological disorder characterised by chronic muscle spasms leading to stiffness. Patients experience sudden, painful muscle contractions, which can lead to adopting rigid body postures.
Typical symptoms of SPS include muscle stiffness, difficulty moving, and muscle pain. The disease can also affect autonomic functions, such as blood pressure regulation and body temperature. SPS is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the nervous system, and its causes are still not fully understood and studied.
