In a heartfelt Instagram post marking International SPS Awareness Day, iconic songstress Celine Dion recently opened up about her ongoing battle with Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) and her unwavering determination to make a triumphant return to the stage.
Alongside a photo with her three sons, the My Heart Will Go On hitmaker expressed her gratitude for the support of her fans in a rare update while reaffirming her resolve to overcome the autoimmune disorder.
“Today the world recognizes International SPS Awareness Day,” she wrote.
“As many of you know, in the fall of 2022, I was diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS). Trying to overcome this autoimmune disorder has been one of the hardest experiences of my life, but I remain determined to one day get back onto the stage and to live as normal of a life as possible. I am deeply grateful for the love and support from my kids, family, team and all of you!
“I want to send my encouragement and support to all those around the world that have been affected by SPS. I want you to know you can do it! We can do it!
“Love Celine xx.”
The post, accompanied by a touching message of encouragement to others battling SPS, garnered an outpouring of love and support from fans worldwide. Messages flooded in, expressing admiration for Dion’s resilience and sending heartfelt wishes for her recovery.
“If there is anyone that can overcome SPS, it’s you! We love you and are sending all the healing vibes your way,” one wrote.
“You’ve got this. You are so loved and you will overcome it. Sending you healthy and healing energy and love!”
“You are so loved!”
“You can do it. Your old soul and your voice are here to heal around the world,” commented another.
“Celine , you will get stronger within the power of positive thinking you will one day ! Sending love to you , be strong.”
In addition to her most recent update, Dion recently made a rare public appearance at the 2024 Grammy Awards where she received a standing ovation from those in attendance.
The 55-year-old singer graced the stage at music’s night of nights to present the Album of the Year award, 27 years after Diana Ross and Sting presented the prize to her.
“Thank you all, I love you right back. When I say that I’m happy to be here, I really mean it from my heart,” she told the crowd.
“Those who have been blessed enough to be here at the Grammy Awards must never take it for granted. The tremendous love and joy that music brings to our lives and to people all around the world.”
Dion has remained out of the public eye of late due to her ongoing struggle with SPS. However, fans will be seeing more of the iconic singer with the release of her documentary, I Am: Celine Dion, which will offer fans a glimpse into her health battle.
Helmed by the Oscar-nominated filmmaker Irene Taylor, the documentary unveils an intimate exploration into the life and legacy of one of the most accomplished figures in the history of music.
Dion explained that she hopes to “raise awareness” about SPS and “help others who share this diagnosis” through the documentary.
“This last couple of years has been such a challenge for me, the journey from discovering my condition to learning how to live with and manage it, but not to let it define me,” she said at the time.
“As the road to resuming my performing career continues, I have realized how much I have missed it, of being able to see my fans. During this absence, I decided I wanted to document this part of my life, to try to raise awareness of this little-known condition, to help others who share this diagnosis.”