A statement by Hollywood actor Bruce Willis’ family has been issued, confirming the 67-year-old star’s diagnosis with ‘frontotemporal dementia’ (FTD). The news comes almost a year after the Willis family announced Willis’ diagnosis with aphasia – a disorder that affects how you communicate. According to the family, Bruce’s condition has progressed and they now have a more specific diagnosis.
The statement reads as follows:
“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 progressive neurological condition and is the most common form of dementia found in people under 60. This form of dementia can have significant impacts on an individual’s cognitive and behavioural functioning.
The frontal and temporal lobes of the brain are responsible for functions such as language, behaviour, emotion, and decision-making, among others. When these areas of the brain are damaged, it can lead to significant changes in an individual’s personality, behaviour, and language abilities, as well as difficulties with planning, organization, and problem-solving.
Kevin Mazur / WireImage / Getty images
The statement continues:
“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 a connectedness with those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it impacts so many individuals and their families.”
It’s unclear how Bruce’s diagnosis with FTD will impact his career or personal life, but it is likely that he will need to make adjustments to accommodate his changing cognitive and behavioural abilities. It is important for those living with FTD, as well as their loved ones and caregivers, to have access to appropriate support and resources to help manage the condition and maintain quality of life.
The Willis family are determined to create awareness around FTD, to educate other families who may have a member of the family struggling with the condition:
“Ours is just one family with a loved one who suffers from FTD, and we encourage others facing it to seek out the wealth of information and support available through AFTD (@theaftd, theaftd.org). And for those of you who have been fortunate enough to not have any personal experience with FTD, we hope that you will take the time to learn about it, and support AFTD’s mission in whatever way you can. “
“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.”
ALSO SEE:
Feature Image: Lev Radin / Pacific Press / LightRocket via Getty Images
