The family of Bruce Willis has publicly shared an update regarding his health, revealing a more definitive diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). This announcement follows their initial disclosure in spring 2022 about Bruce’s struggles with aphasia. In a heartfelt statement released on hudsonfamily.net, the Willis family expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received over the past ten months and provided crucial information about Bruce’s condition and the wider impact of FTD.
In their message, Bruce Willis’s family explained the progression of his condition since the initial aphasia diagnosis. They stated, “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.” This clarifies that the communication difficulties previously reported are now understood to be a part of a larger, more complex neurological condition. The family emphasized that while receiving this news is difficult, having a clear diagnosis offers a sense of relief and a better understanding of the challenges Bruce is facing.
Frontotemporal dementia, or FTD, is described by the Bruce Willis Family as a “cruel disease” that is often not widely understood, yet it can affect anyone. They highlighted the fact that FTD is the most common form of dementia for people under 60 and that diagnosis can often be a lengthy process, suggesting the condition may be more widespread than current figures indicate. The statement also points out the stark reality that currently, there are no effective treatments for FTD, a situation the family hopes will change through increased awareness and research in the future. They expressed their desire for media attention to shift towards raising awareness about FTD and the urgent need for more research into this debilitating disease.
The Bruce Willis family’s statement reflects Bruce’s long-held belief in using his platform to help others and bring attention to important issues. They believe that Bruce, if he were able, would want to use this moment to connect with others affected by FTD and bring global awareness to the disease and its impact on individuals and families. Their message is not just a personal update but also a call to action, encouraging those affected by FTD to seek information and support from organizations like the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD). They also urge those without personal experience with FTD to learn more about the condition and support AFTD’s mission.
Concluding their message, Bruce Willis’s family reiterated their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received. They acknowledged Bruce’s lifelong ability to find joy in life and his impact on others, expressing how meaningful it has been to see that care reciprocated. The family’s statement ends with a request for continued compassion, understanding, and respect, which will enable them to support Bruce in living as full a life as possible. The message is signed by Emma, Demi, Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, and Evelyn, representing the united front of the Bruce Willis family during this challenging time.