Iconic singer Celine Dion recently posted a heartwarming photo of herself flanked by her three sons— René-Charles Angélil and twins Nelson and Eddy, to Instagram for International Stiff Person Syndrome Awareness Day. The 55-year-old has been battling the autoimmune disease since 2022 and has had to step away from the spotlight as a result.
She also shared updates about her condition via her caption and encouraged “all those around the world that have been affected by SPS” to not give up. “I am deeply grateful for the love and support from my kids, family, team, and all of you!” she wrote, adding that similarly ill people “can do it! We can do it!”
Celine Dion poses in rare photo with sons
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Celine admitted that “trying to overcome this autoimmune disorder has been one of the hardest experiences of my life,” however, she is “determined to one day get back onto the stage and to live as normal of a life as possible.” Fans took to the comments with kind words and prayers, hoping she would get back to work soon. “I sincerely respect and thank you for your courage. Your battle will be long and hard. But your singing voice is forever. We’re rooting for you. Please don’t forget that,” someone assured.
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The disease, which reportedly affects more women than men, is “characterized by progressive muscle stiffness, muscle spasms, rigidity typically in the muscles of the back, specifically the lower back, as well as the upper legs,” according to Yale Medicine neurologist and assistant professor of neurology, Dr. Kunal Desai. With these symptoms, she cannot “use my vocal cords to sing the way I’m used to. Sometimes, causing difficulties when I walk. I have to admit it’s been a struggle.”
The “My Heart Will Go On” singer had her kids with her late music producer husband, René Angélil, who died in 2016 after a long battle with throat cancer. Her boys are quite grown, with Rene-Charles recently turning 23 and the twins at 13. “Her main focuses are always her sons and performing. She is the most selfless and considerate person,” a source told PEOPLE. “Céline just loves her boys so much. They are amazing. They give her all the support and love that she needs.”
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Celine Dion at The 2017 Billboard Music Awards at The T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Although not touring or performing, Celine has been working on a new documentary directed by the Oscar-nominated Irene Taylor. The film will look into her thriving career and recent health challenges. I Am: Celine Dion captures more than a year of filming as the legendary singer navigates her journey toward living an open and authentic life amidst illness.
“During this absence, I decided I wanted to document this part of my life, to try to raise awareness of this little-known condition, to help others who share this diagnosis,” Celine stated while announcing the upcoming movie, which will be available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.