World-renowned vocalist Celine Dion, known for her impeccable control over her voice, is now facing a starkly different reality.
The 55-year-old legendary singer is suffering severely from an incurable neurological disorder, as shared by her sister Claudette Dion to the Canadian media 7 Jours, and reported by Daily Mail.
"She is fighting, but she no longer has control over her own muscles. What really breaks my heart is that she has always been so disciplined," her 74-year-old elder sister revealed.
This health challenge comes as Dion, a Canadian superstar known for powerful ballads like "My Heart Will Go On" and "All by Myself," battles a rare disease known as "stiff person syndrome."
This autoimmune and neurological condition causes stiffness in the body. Despite the family's efforts and collaboration with specialized doctors, finding the right medication for Dion's condition remains challenging.
Surprisingly, Dion made a public appearance at an NHL game last month, her first in three and a half years, amidst her ongoing health struggles which include "persistent muscle spasms."
This rare neurological condition affects only one in a million people, and the impact on muscles is particularly concerning.
"The vocal cords are a muscle, the heart is a muscle. That's what hits me. Because it's so rare, there's not much knowledge in the field," Claudette continued.
Despite the difficulties, Claudette assures that Dion is not depressed but full of life. She also addresses false rumors about Dion's health, questioning why some claim she is in a wheelchair or has cancer.
Dion, the queen of power ballads, remains determined and hopeful. She has three sons – René-Charles, 22, and 13-year-old twins Eddy and Nelson – with her late husband René Angélil.