Bruce Willis speaks publicly for the first time since his dementia diagnosis—he celebrated his 68th birthday
Beloved Bruce Willis has recently given his first public statement since his dementia diagnosis was confirmed. He made this statement while celebrating his 68th birthday.
Last year, Willis retired from acting due to his condition called aphasia, which made it difficult for him to communicate and work on set. However, his condition has since gotten worse and he has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia.
Scroll down for the video
The news of the diagnosis came as a surprise to everyone, including his loved ones and fans around the world. They have been providing support to Bruce in any way they can.
Bruce Willis celebrated his 68th birthday over the weekend and fans got to see him for the first time since the news of his diagnosis was made public. In a video shared on social media by Willis’ ex-wife, Demi Moore, Willis’ family could be seen singing “Happy Birthday” to him.
Willis could be heard speaking with his family, including his 44-year-old wife, Emma Willis, and his three daughters, Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah. Moore, who has been reported to be helping with Willis’ care, accompanied the video with a caption saying, “Happy birthday, BW! So glad we could celebrate you today. Love you and love our family. Thank you to everyone for the love and warm wishes – we all feel them.”
According to reports, Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) is a brain condition that affects the front part of the brain. The symptoms of this condition can include changes in personality, repetitive behavior, and difficulty speaking.
View this post on Instagram
Bruce Willis was previously believed to be suffering from aphasia, but he retired from acting to focus on his health. A year later, it was announced that his condition had progressed. A statement from Willis’s wife, Emma Heming, and his children, along with his ex-wife Demi Moore, was released to provide an update on his condition.
“Our family wanted to start by expressing our deepest gratitude for the incredible outpouring of love, support and wonderful stories we have all received since sharing Bruce’s original diagnosis.
“In the spirit of that, we wanted to give you an update about our beloved husband, father and friend since we now have a deeper understanding of what he is experiencing.
“Since we announced Bruce’s diagnosis of aphasia in spring 2022, Bruce’s condition has progressed and we now have a more specific diagnosis: frontotemporal dementia (known as FTD).
“Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces. While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis.
“FTD is a cruel disease that many of us have never heard of and can strike anyone.”
“Bruce has always found joy in life – and has helped everyone he knows to do the same. It has meant the world to see that sense of care echoed back to him and to all of us.
“We have been so moved by the love you have all shared for our dear husband, father, and friend during this difficult time.
“Your continued compassion, understanding, and respect will enable us to help Bruce live as full a life as possible,” the family concluded.”
At the weekend, Emma Willis posted a birthday message for her husband on social media. She expressed her love for him and asked others to keep him in their thoughts and prayers. She mentioned that her husband has a sensitive Pisces soul and would feel the positive energy. She also thanked everyone for their love and care towards her husband.
Happy birthday Bruce!