In an emotional Instagram post this morning, Celine Dion announced that she would be postponing her spring 2023 tour to 2024 and canceling eight of her summer 2023 shows altogether, citing health concerns.
“I’ve struggled with health issues for a long time and it’s been really difficult for me to face those challenges and talk about everything I’ve been through,” Dion said said in a caption. “It pains me to tell you that I will not be ready to resume my tour in Europe in February.”
In a video explaining her decision to cancel upcoming European tours, Dion revealed that she has been “diagnosed with a very rare neurological condition called stiff person syndrome, which affects something like… one in a million people.”
Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is considered an autoimmune movement disorder and affects the central nervous system. The disorder is characterized by intense muscle spasms and abnormal posture. In some cases, SPS can become so severe that a person’s ability to walk or move is limited. according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Women are much more likely to have SPS compared to men, with symptoms usually developing between the ages of 30 and 60 Reports from the Cleveland Clinic.
“Unfortunately, these spasms affect every aspect of my daily life, sometimes causing difficulty in walking and not allowing me to use my vocal cords to sing in the way I’m used to,” Dion said. “I work hard every day with my sports medicine doctor to rebuild my strength and capacity,” she continued. “But I have to admit it was a struggle.”
Treatment for SPS depends on the individual but may include medications (including antiseizure drugs, benzodiazepines, and/or anti-inflammatories) to treat muscle stiffness, spasms, and pain. Physical therapy, massage, water and heat therapy, and acupuncture have also been found to be effective options, the Cleveland Clinic notes.
Dion got emotional as she reflected on the love she has for her fans, saying: “I miss you so much. I miss seeing you all. to be on stage. to perform for you. I always give 100 percent when I do my shows, but my condition doesn’t allow me to give that to you right now.”
“In order for me to get back to you, I have no choice but to focus on my health at this moment,” she continued. “And I have hope that I’m on the road to recovery. This is my focus and I’m doing everything I can to recover. I want to thank you so much for your encouraging wishes of love and support on my social media. That means a lot to me.”
Image Credit: Getty / Axelle/Bauer-Griffin