Las Vegas, Nevada – Celine Dion, the renowned Canadian singer, recently opened up about her battle with a rare neurological disorder known as stiff-person syndrome. This condition, which affects only 1 or 2 out of every 1 million people, has sidelined Dion from her performances and posed significant challenges for her daily life.
Dion revealed that in her desperation to continue performing despite the debilitating symptoms of stiff-person syndrome, she once resorted to taking dangerously high doses of Valium, a powerful medication used to manage muscle spasms and seizures associated with the condition. Starting with 20-milligram doses, Dion eventually found herself taking up to 90 milligrams of Valium daily, a dose that could have been fatal.
The Grammy-winning artist emphasized the dangerous nature of such high doses of Valium, warning that 90 milligrams could lead to respiratory failure. Despite the risks, Dion felt the need to increase her dosage as her body built up tolerance to the medication. It wasn’t until the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 that Dion made the decision to taper off the medication with the guidance of medical professionals.
However, the withdrawal from the medication caused Dion’s symptoms to worsen, further complicating her battle with stiff-person syndrome. Despite these challenges, Dion remains determined to stage a comeback and continue performing for her fans, even as she grapples with the unpredictable nature of the condition.
Dr. Amanda Piquet, a neurologist treating Dion, explained that the episodic muscle spasms associated with stiff-person syndrome can be triggered by various factors, including stress. This has led to poignant conversations between Dion and her children, who have been educated on how to respond in the event of a potential episode, reassuring them that Mom’s condition is not life-threatening.
As Dion navigates the complexities of living with stiff-person syndrome, she has drawn attention to the condition through a documentary by Oscar-nominated director Irene Taylor. The film “I Am: Celine Dion” captures a harrowing moment where Dion experiences a frightening shutdown, highlighting the challenges she faces on a daily basis.
Through her candid revelations and unwavering determination, Dion continues to raise awareness about stiff-person syndrome and inspire others with her resilience in the face of adversity.