Céline Dion’s sister Claudette Dion has given an update on the health of the Power Of Love singer, who sadly had to cancel her world tour due to a diagnosis of stiff person syndrome.
Claudette shared that Céline, 55, is under the care of their sister Linda and collaborating closely with specialized researchers for the rare condition.
“We can’t find any medicine that works, but having hope is important,” Claudette revealed, per SheMazing. She emphasized that Céline needed rest, given that she tends to go above and beyond during performances, always striving for excellence.
She added: “At one point, your heart and your body are trying to tell you something. It’s important to listen to it.”
Stiff person syndrome is a rare neurological disorder causing uncontrollable muscle spasms and affects only one in a million people.
Céline has been deeply engaged with leading researchers in the field of this ailment, and her family believes she will eventually discover a rehabilitation method that allows her to return to the stage. “[Performing] is innate to her, she’s disciplined in every area of her life,” Claudette added.
When direct communication with Céline is not possible, Claudette has said she receive health updates from their other sister, Linda, who is presently residing with the singer at her Las Vegas residence.
Céline’s fans rallied behind her when news of the tour cancellation emerged in May, expressing their support for her prioritizing her health. The cancellation came after she had initially postponed shows due to the diagnosis announcement in December 2022.
In an Instagram post, Céline expressed her disappointment over canceling her Courage World Tour and stated: “It is with tremendous disappointment that we have to announce today the cancellation of the Courage World Tour.”
She continued: “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%. It’s not fair to you to keep postponing the shows, and even though it breaks my heart, it’s best that we cancel everything now until I’m really ready to be back on stage again.”
The singer concluded by saying: “I want you all to know, I’m not giving up… and I can’t wait to see you again!”
Although there is no cure for stiff person syndrome, Céline is actively managing her symptoms and collaborating with a team of doctors, and is remaining focused on her health and recovery.
A source close to the star told US Weekly that the diagnosis “came as a shock, but she’s lost none of her fighting spirit and is comforted that at least she knows exactly what she’s dealing with now. There’s comfort that she can alleviate some of the symptoms by getting treatments that are specific for this condition.”
We are sending all our thoughts and prayers to Céline Dion at this trying time.