Legendary Canadian singer Celine Dion has opened about her ongoing health challenges with Stiff Person Syndrome and how it impacted her well-being.
Stiff person syndrome is a rare and Progressive neurological disease that affects muscle function.
The music superstar talked to NBC News’ about battling the syndrome, which she said has affected not only her ability to sing, but also to walk and even move.
Céline recalled that the symptoms began in her throat and felt like a “strangling” sensation when she tried to talk or sing, and that the illness spread to other parts of her body that caused significant injuries.
“It’s like somebody’s strangling you it’s like somebody’s pushing your larynx/ pharynx this way and you cannot go higher or lower,” Celine said.
Celine Dion Describes Terrible Symptoms of the Disease
The 56-year-old went on to reveal that she frequently endures excruciating muscle cramps which led to her breaking a rib on one occasion.
“I have broken ribs at one point because sometimes when it’s very severe, it can break,” she said.
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“It feels like, if I point my feet, they will stay in (that position). Or, if I cook – because I love to cook – my fingers, my hands, will get in position … It’s cramping but it’s like in a position where you cannot unlock them.”
The Canadian pop icon confirmed that she had been diagnosed with the condition in 2022, and she has now given her first television interview on the subject.
In March 2024, Celine, in an Instagram post in honor of International Stiff Person Syndrome Awareness Day said she still had hopes to get back on stage.
“Trying to overcome this autoimmune disorder has been one of the hardest experiences of my life, but I remain determined to one day get back onto the stage and to live as normal of a life as possible,” she wrote.
“I want to send my encouragement and support to all those around the world that have been affected by SPS. I want you to know you can do it. We can do it.”
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Celine Looking Forward to a Return
Dion said she hopes to return to the stage one day after canceling a world tour in 2022 due to devastating symptoms that left her unable to perform.
“I love you guys so much and I really hope I can see you again real soon. It’s not hard to do a show you know but it’s hard to cancel a show,” she stated.
However, despite her health challenges, Celine emphasized that she is currently focusing on getting better.
“I have no choice but to concentrate on my health at this moment. I’m working hard every day, but I have to admit it’s been a struggle,” she said.
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