Céline Dion shares rare, hopeful update as she marks Thanksgiving amid SPS battle

Céline Dion offered fans a rare and uplifting update this week as she appeared happy and well in a new Instagram video shared on Thanksgiving, amid her battle with stiff person syndrome.

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A post shared by Céline Dion (@celinedion)

“Dear friends. Today is a beautiful reminder to slow down, take a deep breath and give thanks,” Dion said, speaking directly to the camera. “There’s something so powerful about gathering with the people you love, whether around the full table, over the phone or even just in your heart.”

The singer added that she was feeling grateful for the time spent with her loved ones: “I’m so thankful to my family and our moments together that mean the world to me.”

Dion, 57, revealed in December 2022 that she had been diagnosed with stiff person syndrome, a rare neurological condition that causes muscle rigidity and painful spasms. At the time, she announced the postponement and later cancellation of several concerts, saying the condition had been affecting her ability to perform.

“I’ve been dealing with problems with my health for a long time, and it’s been really difficult for me to face these challenges,” she said in an emotional video shared when she first revealed her diagnosis.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, stiff person syndrome leads to increasing rigidity in the trunk and limbs and can also affect the arms and face over time.

Earlier this year, Dion spoke to Hoda Kotb about how the condition has impacted her singing. “It’s like somebody is strangling you,” she said, describing the physical strain it puts on her vocal system.

She closed her Thanksgiving message with a hopeful note for her followers.

“May your Thanksgiving be filled with joy, with peace and with gratitude for everything. Even the little things.”

Aasiya Nazir