What is frontotemporal dementia? Bruce Willis' condition worsens after aphasia diagnosis
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Actor Bruce Willis is diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, revealed by his wife on Thursday, February 16. The ‘Die Hard’ legend’s partner Emma Heming Willis in an Instagram post shared a picture of the 67-year-old actor and said his condition has worsened after he was first diagnosed with aphasia last year. “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,” she wrote in the caption.
“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,” it continued. Talking about his latest diagnosis with FTD, she explained the situation, "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," she further added.
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What is frontotemporal dementia (FTD)?
The medical term frontotemporal dementia is referred to as an all-encompassing word for a group of brain disorders. It can threaten the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, which in other words means that parts of these lobes atrophy, and the shrinking of these areas can lead to speech issues, emotional difficulties, and varying personalities. The disorder can impact the loss of motor skills, difficulty in walking, swallowing, or muscle spasms. Its symptoms become more visible in patients between 40-65 years of age, according to People.
In her lengthy Instagram post, Emma further wrote "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."
'We have been so moved by the love'
She also touched on Willis’ way of looking at the world, "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.” Emma concluded her statement by saying, “Your continued compassion, understanding, and respect will enable us to help Bruce live as full a life as possible."