Bruce Willis' statement in full as devastated family announce dementia diagnosis
Bruce Willis' heartbroken family issued a devastating update tonight on the Hollywood star's health – revealing he has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia.
The Pulp Fiction and Fifth Element actor, 67, has been on a break from acting since March last year when his family announced he was struggling.
Announcing the much-loved actor's sad diagnosis, his daughter, Rumer, who he shares with ex-wife Demi Moore, shared the health update in a heartbreaking Instagram post.
Rumer began: "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.
"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.
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Bruce has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (VCG via Getty Images)"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).
"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.
"FTD is a cruel disease that many of us have never heard of and can strike anyone".
"Today there are no treatments for the disease, a reality that we hope can change in the years ahead. As Bruce’s condition advances, we hope that any media attention can be focused on shining a light on this disease that needs far more awareness and research.
Bruce's devastated family revealed his sad diagnosis (Getty Images for goop)"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 connectedness with those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it impacts so many individuals and their families.
"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.
"We have been so moved by the love you have all shared for our dear husband, father, and friend during this difficult time.
Bruce stepped away from acting last year (Instagram)"Your continued compassion, understanding, and respect will enable us to help Bruce live as full a life as possible," the family concluded."
It was last March that Bruce announced he would be quitting his acting career after discovering a devastating diagnosis.
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Bruce, 68, had been diagnosed with aphasia - a condition which has affected his cognitive abilities and has made the decision to step back from making movies.
Disclosing the news to fans on social media at the time, the Willis family said it had been a “really challenging time” for them and thanked fans for their “continued love, compassion and support”.
Bruce's family have been caring for him over the past year (Instagram)“To Bruce’s amazing supporters, as a family we wanted to share that our beloved Bruce has been experiencing some health issues and has recently been diagnosed with aphasia, which is impacting his cognitive abilities,” a statement shared on Instagram read.
As a result of this and with much consideration Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him.
“This is a really challenging time for our family and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion and support.
Bruce has enjoyed an incredible acting career (Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
The Hollywood actor married Demi Moore (Getty Images For Comedy Central)
“We are moving through this as a strong family unit, and wanted to bring his fans in because we know how much he means to you, as you do to him.
“As Bruce always says, ‘Live it up’ and together we plan to do just that.”
The post was signed from Emma, Demi, Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, & Evelyn.
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