Emma Heming Willis, the wife of retired U.S. actor Bruce Willis, shared her poignant insights into his struggles with frontotemporal dementia, revealing that while Bruce remains active and in good health, his cognitive abilities are deteriorating. Speaking to ABC News, she stated: Bruce is still very mobile; he is in really great health overall, you know. It's just his brain that is failing him.
Over three years ago, Bruce was diagnosed with this rare form of dementia characterized by significant challenges with language and behavior. Emma is also preparing to publish a book based on their experiences, aimed at guiding fellow caregivers. The language is going, and, you know, we've learned to adapt, she explained, highlighting the evolution of their means of communication.
In 2023, the Willis family revealed Bruce's diagnosis to the public, emphasizing the need for understanding this uncommon type of dementia. Reflecting on her experience, Emma admitted the initial burden of caretaking led to sleepless nights and feelings of isolation. Yet, she hopes that her book, titled Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path, will provide a roadmap for others in similar situations.
Emma described the bittersweet moments when Bruce's true self shines through. We still see flashes of his personality and the 'twinkle in his eye.' Not days, but we get moments, she expressed, recalling his hearty laughter and the fleeting smirks that remind her of the man she fell in love with.
This heartfelt dialogue precedes the airing of ABC's special, Emma & Bruce Willis: The Unexpected Journey, which explores their family dynamics and the effects of dementia, scheduled to be shown in the U.S. at 20:00 BST and available for streaming the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.
Over three years ago, Bruce was diagnosed with this rare form of dementia characterized by significant challenges with language and behavior. Emma is also preparing to publish a book based on their experiences, aimed at guiding fellow caregivers. The language is going, and, you know, we've learned to adapt, she explained, highlighting the evolution of their means of communication.
In 2023, the Willis family revealed Bruce's diagnosis to the public, emphasizing the need for understanding this uncommon type of dementia. Reflecting on her experience, Emma admitted the initial burden of caretaking led to sleepless nights and feelings of isolation. Yet, she hopes that her book, titled Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path, will provide a roadmap for others in similar situations.
Emma described the bittersweet moments when Bruce's true self shines through. We still see flashes of his personality and the 'twinkle in his eye.' Not days, but we get moments, she expressed, recalling his hearty laughter and the fleeting smirks that remind her of the man she fell in love with.
This heartfelt dialogue precedes the airing of ABC's special, Emma & Bruce Willis: The Unexpected Journey, which explores their family dynamics and the effects of dementia, scheduled to be shown in the U.S. at 20:00 BST and available for streaming the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.
