Celine Dion Shares Why She Went Public With Stiff Person Syndrome Diagnosis

Published: June 11, 2024

Celine Dion Shares Why She Went Public With Stiff Person Syndrome Diagnosis

By Movieguide® Contributor

Celine Dion is opening up about the physical effects Stiff Person Syndrome has had on her, from difficulty singing to muscle spasms that have led to broken ribs.

In an interview with TODAY’s Hoda Kotb, Dion revealed that singing with Stiff Person Syndrome feels “like somebody’s strangling you,” adding, “it’s like somebody’s pushing your larynx, pharynx.”

The singer also shared that her condition can also cause spasms, specifically in the abdomen and spine.

“It feels like if I point my feet, it will stay in [that position],” Dion explained. “Or, if I cook — because I love to cook — my fingers, my hands will get in position. It’s cramping, but it’s like in a position of like, you cannot unlock them.”

She added, “Sometimes, when it’s very severe, it can break some ribs.”

Dion elaborated on her decision to go public with her diagnosis as well. She started noticing symptoms in 2008 but did not announce she had Stiff Person Syndrome until 2022 when she had to start postponing and canceling shows.

“I could not do this anymore,” she explained. “Lying for me, the burden was too much. Lying to the people who got me where I am today, I could not do it anymore.”

Movieguide® previously reported on Dion’s diagnosis:

The pop star revealed that she has been diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome, a rare neurological condition that affects something like 1 in a million people.

“While we’re still learning about this rare condition, we now know this is what has been causing all of the spasms I’ve been having,” Dion went on. “Unfortunately these spasms affect every aspect of my daily life, sometimes causing difficulties when I walk and not allowing me to use my vocal cords to sing the way I’m used to.”

She continued, “It hurts me to tell you, today, that this means I won’t be ready to restart my tour in Europe in February. I have a great team of doctors working alongside me to help get better and my precious children, who are supporting me and giving me hope.”

In January, Dion canceled North American tour dates, citing a “recovery from recent health issues.”

“I miss you so much. I miss seeing all of you — being on the stage, performing for you. I always give 100 percent when I do my shows,” the singer said. “But my condition is not allowing me to give you that right now. For me to reach you again, I have no choice but to concentrate on my health at this moment. And I have hope that I’m on the road to recovery. This is my focus. And I’m doing everything that I can to recuperate.”

She concluded, “I want to thank you so much for your encouraging wishes of love and support on my social media. This means a lot to me. Take care of yourselves — be well. I love you guys so much. And I really hope I can see you again, really soon. Thank you.”

Dion will share more details about her life with Stiff Person Syndrome in the upcoming documentary I AM: CELINE DION.

“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,” a press release about the documentary reads.