Celine Dion diagnosed with incurable disease that 'turns people into human statues'
Celine Dion has been diagnosed with an incurable neurological disease.
In a post to Instagram, the 54-year-old explained to her fans that she had been dealing with a condition that causes her to suffer from spasms.
She said: "Hello everyone, I'm sorry it's taken me so long to reach out to you. I miss you all so much and can’t wait to be on stage talking to you in person.
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"As you know I’ve always been an open book and I wasn’t ready to say anything before but I'm ready now.
"I’ve been dealing with problems with my health for a long time and its been really difficult for me to face my challenges and to talk about everything that I’ve been going through.
"Recently I’ve been diagnosed with a very rare neurological disorder called the stiff-person syndrome which affects 1 in a million people.
"While we’re still learning about this rare condition, we now know this is what’s been causing all the spasms I’ve been having."
She went on to explain that she would not be touring next year.
"It hurts me to tell you today that this means I won’t be ready to restart my tour in Europe in February," said the Canadian singer.
"I always give 100 percent when I do my show but my condition is now allowing me to give you that right now.
"For me to reach you again I have no choice but to concentrate on my health at this moment and I have hope that im on the road to recovery.
"This is my focus and I'm doing everything I can to recuperate.
"I want to thank you so much for your wishes and love and support on my social media. This means a lot to me.
"Take care of yourselves. Be well. I love you guys so much and I really hope I can see you again real soon."
According to the National Institution of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, stiff-person syndrome can cause someone to become increasingly sensitive to noise emotional distress.
The site explains: "Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) is a rare neurological disorder with features of an autoimmune disease.
"SPS is characterised by fluctuating muscle rigidity in the trunk and limbs and a heightened sensitivity to stimuli such as noise, touch, and emotional distress, which can set off muscle spasms.
"Abnormal postures, often hunched over and stiffened, are characteristic of the disorder.
"People with SPS can be too disabled to walk or move, or they are afraid to leave the house because street noises, such as the sound of a horn, can trigger spasms and falls.
"SPS affects twice as many women as men."
Since she announced that she was battling the rare condition, the singer's fans have been sharing messages of support.
Commenting on her post, one follower said: "We are with you, Celine."
Another wrote: "Courage."
"We love you Celine. Stay healthy," put someone else.
While another added: "We love you queen. You health always comes first. We understand. Heal and come back better."
Dominic Smithers