Céline Dion has shared intimate details of her struggle with Stiff Person Syndrome, a rare autoimmune neurological disorder, during a conversation with Hoda Kotb on “Today.”
The iconic singer described the condition as feeling “like somebody strangling you” and explained that it can feel “like someone is pushing your larynx,” causing her voice to spasm and making it difficult to modulate her tone. She said, “it feels like you can not go any higher or lower.”
This has further been a hindrance in her daily life activities and career.
Dion first made known to the world, her diagnosis in 2022, a year after she abruptly canceled her Las Vegas residency. As time went on, she also had to cancel her Courage World Tour dates for 2023 and 2024.
Reflecting on how the syndrome affects her daily life, Dion mentioned, “If I cook, because I love to cook, my fingers and hands will get into a position that you cannot unlock them.” She added that the severity of the condition has even led to broken ribs.
Despite these challenges, Dion has not been completely put aside. She made a surprise appearance at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this year, receiving a standing ovation as she presented the Album of the Year award to Taylor Swift. “I love you right back,” Dion expressed to the audience, emphasizing her heartfelt gratitude for being part of the event. “When I say I’m happy to be here, I really mean it from my heart.”
Dion, an icon for decades and talented vocalist and inspiration to many established and upcoming artists, has won six Grammys herself, including Album of the Year for 1997’s “Falling Into You,” and continues to be an inspirational figure. A documentary titled “I Am: Céline Dion,” which delves into her life and her battle with the illness, is set to be released on June 25.
