Renowned singer Céline Dion has provided a candid account of her fight with Stiff Person Syndrome, sharing the stark reality of the condition.
In an intimate conversation with Today‘s Hoda Kotb, the iconic vocalist described how the autoimmune disorder has affected her ability to sing at age 56.
Dion articulated that performing has turned exceptionally excruciating, equating the sensation to being throttled. She expressed, “It’s like someone is squeezing your throat, your voice box, in this way,” while gesturing to her neck. She struggled with the inability to modulate her pitch.
She further divulged that debilitating muscle spasms have been a significant part of her struggle, specifying their intensity in her abdomen, spine, and ribs.
Illustrating her muscular contractions, Dion noted, “It’s as though your feet remain curled when you point them, or your hands fixate in position while engaging in a passion like cooking — it’s as though they’re locked and you can’t move them.”
Heartbreakingly, Dion revealed that the spasms have led to physical injuries, disclosing, “At times, when the severity peaks, it can lead to broken ribs,” and confirmed that she had, in fact, suffered from broken ribs because of this.
Since announcing her diagnosis in December 2022, Dion has largely retreated from the public eye, cancelling a world tour and making few public appearances to prioritize her well-being.
While Dion has shared updates throughout her journey, her in-depth narrative will be showcased in the documentary I Am: Celine Dion and further discussed in her interview with Kotb, which will be broadcast fully on Tuesday, June 11 at 10 p.m. ET on NBC.
Coming up: Céline Dion’s Authentic Reaction to Her Memorable Grammys Performance With Taylor Swift
FAQs About Céline Dion and Stiff Person Syndrome
- What is Stiff Person Syndrome?
- Stiff Person Syndrome is a rare, progressive neurological disorder characterized by severe muscle stiffness and painful spasms, often leading to muscle rigidity. It is an autoimmune disease, meaning it results from the body’s immune system mistakenly attacking its own tissues.
- How has Stiff Person Syndrome affected Céline Dion’s singing?
- According to Dion, singing has become very painful, with sensations similar to being strangled. This makes it challenging to adjust her pitch. The condition also causes muscle spasms that can interfere with her performances.
- Has Céline Dion broken ribs due to Stiff Person Syndrome?
- Yes, Céline Dion has mentioned in her interview that the severe muscle spasms have at times led to broken ribs.
- When will Céline Dion’s detailed interview with Hoda Kotb air?
- The in-depth interview with Céline Dion is scheduled to air on Tuesday, June 11 at 10 p.m. ET on NBC.
- Is there a documentary about Céline Dion’s life and health?
- Yes, a documentary titled I Am: Celine Dion will showcase Céline Dion’s life, including her battle with Stiff Person Syndrome.