22 April 2024 , 17:17
821
0
Celine Dion has admitted she has had to "learn to live with" Stiff Person Syndrome after being diagnosed with the rare autoimmune disorder in 2022.
The 56-year-old singer shocked fans when she first revealed her diagnosis after cancelling all of her tour dates for 2023 and 2024. Celine has stayed relatively quiet about her health struggles, but she's now said she's trying to "take it one day at a time".
The My Heart Will Go On hitmaker admitted she would question whether the diagnosis was her fault during the start of her health journey, but has now learnt "life doesn't give you any answers".
READ MORE: Jon Bon Jovi says it's 'up to God' to fix his vocal cords following surgery
Celine Dion is living with Stiff Person Syndrome (Getty Images)Speaking to Vogue France, Celine said: "I haven't beat the disease, as it's still within me and always will be. I hope that we'll find a miracle, a way to cure it with scientific research, but for now I have to learn to live with it."
'Syndrome Celine Dion diagnosed with left me unable to put my socks on'
She explained how she undergoes athletic, physical and vocal therapy five days a week to try and battle the condition. She added: "At the beginning I would ask myself: why me? How did this happen? What have I done? Is this my fault? Life doesn't give you any answers. You just have to live it!"
As for her goal, the star wishes to be able travel again and see one specific site again, revealing, "My goal is to see the Eiffel Tower again."
Celine paid tribute to her family and fans and thanked them for their support as she fights Stiff Person Syndrome. She also admitted it's "a gift" to be able to have access to "good doctors and good treatments" and said she has a "strength within me" to not stop.
She hopes there will one day by a cure (AFP via Getty Images)Stiff Person Syndrome is a rare, progressive syndrome that affects the nervous system. Those suffering from SPS can suffer from chronic pain, falls, and a loss of mobility. The condition can also cause a heightened sensitivity to noise, sudden movements, and emotional distress, which can set off muscle spasms.
Celine revealed her diagnosis in December 2022 as she cancelled her Courage World Tour. She's set to release a documentary, I Am: Celine Dion, about her experience on June 25, 2024.
Last week, Celine shared a new picture from the documentary on Instagram. The post was captioned: "Get ready! @amazonmgmstudios announces release date to the highly anticipated documentary! I AM: CELINE DION will be streaming globally on @primevideo starting June 25.
"Directed by Academy Award nominee Irene Taylor, I AM: CELINE DION gives us a raw and honest behind-the-scenes look at the iconic superstar’s struggle with a life-altering illness. Serving as a love letter to her fans, this inspirational documentary highlights the music that has guided her life while also showcasing the resilience of the human spirit."