Bruce Willis‘ daughter Rumer Willis shared a heartbreaking update on her father’s battle with dementia after he was recently seen holding a carer’s hand during a rare public outing.
Willis’ Health Condition
In March 2022, Willisâ family released a statement announcing that the beloved actor had been diagnosed with aphasia, a condition that makes communicating and processing language difficult.
Rumer Willis shared the following statement on her Instagram announcing her father’s departure from acting:
“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. 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. 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. Love, Emma, Demi, Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, & Evelyn”
On February 16, 2023, Willis’ family released a statement that his aphasia had progressed into frontotemporal dementia.
âSince we announced Bruceâs diagnosis of aphasia in spring 2022, Bruceâs condition has progressed and we now have a more specific diagnosis: frontotemporal dementia (known as FTD),â reads the statement shared via The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration. âUnfortunately, 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.â
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 â 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.”
Willis’ family has shared their love and support for the legendary action hero over the years.
Recently, his wife Emma Heming Willis shared that her and Bruce celebrated their 15th anniversary on March 21, 2024.
On their anniversary, Emma shared a photo of Bruce giving her a kiss on Instagram, writing in the caption, “Today marks our 15th wedding anniversary! And today, I can make a choice. I can wallow in sorrow or I can celebrate it. I call this the âremarkable reframe.â What I know is there is so much to celebrate.”
“Our union and connection is probably stronger than ever. We have two bright, fun and healthy daughters. We have a family unit that is built on mutual respect and admiration. And simply, I just love and adore the man I married. Iâm so proud of what we have and continue to create. So, happy crystal anniversary to us!” she concluded.
Willis’ Recent Beachfront Stroll
On November 6, Willis was pictured holding his carer’s hand while they walked along the beach in Los Angeles. He appeared to be in good spirits, even flashing a smile at one point, according to Daily Mail.
Willis was pictured sporting a casual look made up of a dark grey t-shirt, khaki pants, and grey sneakers. Daily Mail also reported that as Willis continued his walk, he had reached his other hand for the railing, appearing to use it for support.Â
Rumer Remains Grateful Amid Difficult Times
On November 20, Rumer shared an update on her Instagram stories.
After a fan asked about her father’s health, Rumer answered honestly, “people always ask me this question, and I think it’s kind of a hard one to answer, because the truth is that anybody with FTD is not doing great. But…he’s doing okay, in terms of somebody who is dealing with frontotemporal dementia. The only way that I feel like I could answer that in a way that was like “He’s doing great!” – you know, it’s like, those parameters don’t really work anymore I guess, in my mind.”
“I’m so grateful that when I go over there, and I give him a hug, whether he recognizes me or not, that he can feel the love I’ve given him, and I can feel it back from him. That I still see a spark of him, and he can feel the love that I’m giving.”
Rumer shared that she brings her 23-month-old daughter Louetta along for the visits.
“I just feel grateful that I get to go over there with Louetta, and we get to spend time with him, and I get to feel the love that he has for me and that he puts out to me, and that I can love him and be with him.”
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