As she gears up for her upcoming five-week residency in Paris starting next month, Céline Dion is opening up about her battle with illness and the treatment she has undergone.
The renowned Canadian singer shared in an exclusive feature with Harper’s Bazaar that she had been experiencing symptoms of stiff person syndrome for 17 years before being formally diagnosed with the rare neurological autoimmune disorder in 2022.
Describing the excruciating pain that started intensifying in 2020, Dion revealed that there were days when she struggled to even walk, sometimes requiring a high dosage of Valium to manage.
Stiff person syndrome is a progressive condition that typically worsens over time, affecting only one or two individuals per million. Its symptoms include muscle stiffness and painful spasms, often triggered by stress, loud noises, or sudden movements. Despite the lack of a definitive cause and approved treatment for the disorder, various therapies can assist in its management.
Prior to her diagnosis, Dion would attribute show cancellations to minor ailments like a cough or sinus infection, concealing the true extent of her suffering.
The singer expressed to Harper’s that she sensed something more severe was at play, feeling guilty for not being transparent with her devoted fans who supported her through her treatment journey.
After receiving her diagnosis, Dion made the difficult decision to cancel all remaining shows. She has been absent from public performances since the Paris 2024 Olympic Games but is now gearing up for her return to the stage in September.
Dion’s Comprehensive Recovery Plan
Reports indicate that Dion has been diligently following a rigorous recovery regimen, incorporating medications, physical therapy, vocal exercises, and immunotherapy.
Additionally, she engages in 90-minute Pilates sessions thrice weekly, along with bi-weekly ballet classes, to prepare for her upcoming performances.
In the Harper’s article, journalist Jazmine Hughes described Dion as constantly in motion, almost afraid to remain stationary for too long out of fear of experiencing stiffness.
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