Legendary Canadian singer, Céline Dion, has announced the postponement of several dates on her European tour due to a recent diagnosis of the rare neurological condition known as stiff-person syndrome. In two heartfelt videos shared on her social media accounts, Dion explained how her debilitating illness prevents her from performing at her best.
Stiff-person syndrome is characterized by muscle rigidity and spasms, which can significantly limit mobility and the ability to carry out daily tasks. According to The Stiff Person Syndrome Research Foundation, patients with this condition may find themselves immobile or unable to care for themselves.
For Dion, these muscle spasms have taken a toll on every aspect of her life. In her emotional videos, she tearfully expressed the difficulties she faces in communicating and moving, making it challenging for her to perform as she is accustomed to.
Dion shared her disappointment that her illness has postponed the start of her European tour, originally scheduled for February. The new dates for her 2023 tour have been announced, with eight performances between May 31 and July 17, 2023, being rescheduled.
Despite her health challenges, Dion remains determined to return to the stage that has brought her so much joy throughout her life. As she stated, “I’m just a singer, and I find the most happiness in doing it.”
The premier of Québec, François Legault, expressed his sympathy for Dion’s condition, wishing her a speedy recovery during a press conference. Support has also poured in from fans and admirers, including a touching tribute from a children’s choir performing “My Heart Will Go On” in Toronto’s Queen’s Park.
To help improve her strength and performance, Dion revealed that she is working closely with a sports medicine therapist on a daily basis. However, she sincerely misses her audience and regrets not being able to give them everything she’s got due to her health limitations.
For more information about Dion’s tour and any future updates, fans can visit her official website. Stiff-person syndrome is a rare condition, with fewer than 5,000 reported cases in the country according to the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences. While symptoms can appear at any stage of life, they are most commonly observed in adulthood.
