After being diagnosed with aphasia in 2022, Bruce Willis’ condition “has progressed” and the “Die Hard” actor has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, according to his family.
The 67-year-old actor’s ex-wife, Demi Moore, revealed his new health diagnosis on Instagram with a heartfelt post.
“Our family wanted to start by expressing our deepest gratitude for the incredible outpouring of love, support and wonderful stories we have all received since sharing Bruce’s original diagnosis,” Moore wrote. “In the spirit of that, we wanted to give you an update about our beloved husband, father and friend since we now have a deeper understanding of what he is experiencing.
“Since we announced Bruce’s diagnosis of aphasia in spring 2022, Bruce’s condition has progressed and we now have a more specific diagnosis: frontotemporal dementia (known as FTD),” she added. “Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces. While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis.”
Willis married Emma Heming at their home in Turks and Caicos in March 2009 and have since had two daughters, Mabel and Evelyn. Willis was previously married to Moore for 12 years, and the two share three daughters, Rumer, Scout and Tallulah.
The family shared more about the “cruel disease” in a statement posted on The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration website.
“For people under 60, FTD is the most common form of dementia, and because getting the diagnosis can take years, FTD is likely much more prevalent than we know. Today there are no treatments for the disease, a reality that we hope can change in the years ahead,” the release said.
“Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others, and to raise awareness about important issues both publicly and privately. We know in our hearts that — if he could today — he would want to respond by bringing global attention and a connectedness with those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it impacts so many individuals and their families.”
The Willis family encouraged others facing FTD to “seek out the wealth of information and support available through AFTD” and encouraged others to continue advocating for research and awareness.
“Bruce has always found joy in life — and has helped everyone he knows to do the same. It has meant the world to see that sense of care echoed back to him and to all of us,” the statement said. “We have been so moved by the love you have all shared for our dear husband, father, and friend during this difficult time. Your continued compassion, understanding, and respect will enable us to help Bruce live as full a life as possible.”
Willis retired from acting in March 2022 after receiving a diagnosis of aphasia, a disorder which affects communication, including the ability to understand verbal cues and written words.
According to the National Aphasia Association, the disorder affects two million Americans with nearly 180,000 diagnosed with the disorder annually.
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