Emma Willis reveals husband Bruce Willis’ struggle with rare dementia affecting language and behaviour, among other things.
In 2022, the iconic actor Bruce Willis, best known for his role in Die Hard, made the heartfelt announcement that he would be taking a step back from his acting career due to his ongoing battle with Aphasia, a challenging language impairment.
However, in 2023, his family provided an update on the 68-year-old’s health, disclosing that his condition had deteriorated. He had received a diagnosis of a rare form of dementia known as frontotemporal dementia. His wife, Emma willis, made an appearance on the Today show to support World Frontotemporal Dementia Awareness Week, shedding light on the challenges their family has faced.
When asked if her 68-year-old husband was aware of his condition, the 45-year-old Emma Heming replied, “It’s hard to say.” Joining her was Susan Dickinson, CEO of the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration, who clarified that frontotemporal dementia distinctively impacts the brain’s language processing instead of memory, distinguishing it from Alzheimer’s. Let’s delve deeper into this condition.
Dementia is a syndrome marked by cognitive decline, affecting memory, thinking, and language skills. It encompasses various conditions like Alzheimer’s and frontotemporal dementia, each with distinct features. Dementia’s progressive nature impacts daily life, including daily tasks and communication, often accompanied by behavioural changes. Early diagnosis and proper care planning are vital to support those affected and their caregivers.
What are the symptoms of frontotemporal dementia?
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) manifests through various symptoms related to language, behavior, and personality. Common signs include language problems like difficulty speaking or understanding speech, impaired grammar, and using words inappropriately. Behavioral changes can involve increased apathy, repetitive behaviors, social withdrawal, or overeating. Alterations in personality may lead to disinhibition, loss of empathy, neglect of personal hygiene, and emotional bluntness. The specific symptoms can vary among individuals with FTD, depending on the affected brain regions.
More about Bruce Willis
Walter Bruce Willis, born on March 19, 1955, is an American actor who has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. He rose to stardom with his iconic role in the comedy-drama series “Moonlighting” (1985–1989) and went on to establish himself as an action hero through his unforgettable portrayal of John McClane in the “Die Hard” franchise (1988–2013). Willis boasts an impressive filmography, with appearances in over a hundred films, making him a celebrated figure in the world of cinema.
Bruce draws inspiration from a distinguished line-up of acting legends, including luminaries such as Gary Cooper, Robert De Niro, Steve McQueen, and John Wayne. Interestingly, he possesses the unique trait of being left-handed.
He has garnered a plethora of accolades during his illustrious career, including prestigious honours like a Golden Globe Award, two Primetime Emmy Awards, and two People’s Choice Awards. In recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry, he was bestowed with a coveted star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2006. Notably, films in which Willis has played a leading role have collectively earned an impressive box office revenue ranging from US$2.64 billion to US$3.05 billion in North America alone. This remarkable achievement solidified his position as the eighth-highest-grossing leading actor in 2010, further highlighting his significant impact on the world of cinema.
In March 2022, Willis’s family announced that he was retiring after suffering from aphasia. In February 2023, he was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia.
Source: Mirror