02 January 2024 , 10:19
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Emma Heming-Willis, Bruce Willis' wife, has shared a moving video on social media for her followers in need of support.
The beloved Die Hard actor, 68, was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (better known as FTD) earlier this year. His health battle was first unveiled last year though, when Bruce's family revealed that he was suffering from a language disorder called aphasia.
Emma, 45, who married Bruce in 2009, has spoken out about her husband's struggles on several occasions. She also raises awareness for his condition with public appearances and research.
READ MORE: Bruce Willis' wife putting herself 'back together' after actor's dementia diagnosis
Emma shared advice for her fans (emmahemingwillis/Instagram)
She offered support (emmahemingwillis/Instagram)Bruce stepped away from acting in March and Emma has been his "care partner" ever since, with her now sharing support for those who are going through the same thing with their partners. In a recent Instagram upload, Emma revealed that while she's feeling "better now," amid the couple's hardships, her heart was "hurting" because of comments she received from her followers.
Bruce Willis diagnosed with dementia as family release emotional statement
She started: "I'm feeling so much better now. I have my head on straight and I just wanted to share some things with you guys." Emma then explained that her comments had been filled with people unable to share their feelings and emotions with anyone, to which she replied: "My heart hurts because I've been there and that's a dark place.
"Once I found connection, I was able to start building a community around me of people who have shared this experience. It was like the heavens opened up." Emma advised those going through the same struggles as her that not all friends and family will be able to understand or "know what to say."
Emma has been raising awareness about Bruce's diagnosis (VCG via Getty Images)She went on to list ways to find support, including contacting your neurology office and joining support groups both online and in person. "When you're able to find someone that knows what you're going through it honestly feels like the biggest warmest hug."
Emma shared her post with the caption: "This post is for anyone needing to find their 'inner circle.' I encourage you to find support. It was the game changer I didn’t know I needed."
"Consider looking for a virtual support group. Support groups share helpful resources and offer a safe space to share your thoughts with others that understand," Emma continued. "In my bio you’ll find direct links to @wearehfc @theaftd @lorenzos_house support groups and programs. My hope is that you’ll make time to find your community and make meaningful connections in 2024."