Las Vegas, NV – Superstar vocalist Celine Dion recently opened up in a primetime interview with NBC News about her decade-long struggle with stiff-person syndrome, a rare neurological condition that almost took her life. Dion, 56, shared her fears during the onset of the disorder, the challenges she faced in obtaining an accurate diagnosis, and the impact it had on her life and career.
Diagnosed with stiff-person syndrome in 2022, Dion revealed that she had been experiencing symptoms of the disorder since 2008. The rare condition causes muscle stiffness, painful spasms, double vision, and impaired mobility in those affected. Throughout the interview, Dion discussed how she became dependent on increasing doses of Valium to manage the pain and spasms associated with the disorder.
The Grammy-winning artist recounted moments of panic and uncertainty during her performances, where the severe muscle spasms became evident to her and her team. Despite the challenges, Dion remained determined to continue her Las Vegas residency at Caesars Palace, which has spanned over 16 years and more than 1100 performances.
Taking advantage of the downtime brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Dion sought help from doctors to wean off medication and gain control of her health. She also began shooting a documentary, providing a glimpse into her private life and the impact of stiff-person syndrome on her daily life.
Dion expressed her determination to return to the stage and share her voice with fans, emphasizing her resilience and commitment to overcoming the challenges posed by the rare disorder. The documentary, titled “I Am: Celine Dion,” is set to premiere on Amazon Prime, offering a deeper insight into the singer’s journey and struggles.
Throughout the interview, Dion’s perseverance and strength shone through as she discussed her journey with stiff-person syndrome and her unwavering desire to make a comeback on stage, no matter the obstacles. The full interview with Dion will be available for streaming on Peacock starting June 12.