‘Truly Remarkable’: Bruce Willis’ Wife Works With Dementia Specialist Following FTD Diagnosis
By Movieguide® Contributor
Emma Willis, Bruce Willis’ wife, shared more about the work she and a specialist are doing to help the actor navigate life with his new frontotemporal dementia (FTD) diagnosis.
Emma revealed that she is working with Teepa Snow, a specialist who works with people who have loved ones with dementia, providing education and hands-on skills.
“I’m grateful I had the opportunity to work with @teepasnows_pac who has helped me add to my dementia care toolbox,” Emma captioned a photo of the pair. “She’s a loving, compassionate and skilled leader in this space who navigates herself with pure empathy. She’s a gift.”
In the post’s comments, Snow praised Willis’ wife for her “absolutely remarkable job of providing the right support for Bruce as his abilities have changed” and for providing him “with what he needs to live well.”
“[FTD] is never easy but with the right programming and support, it truly is possible to continue living life. Congrats to Emma and their entire family for their very very hard work and dedication,” Snow added. “It is truly remarkable!”
Willis, who shared his diagnosis of aphasia last year, has now been diagnosed with FTD. Both disorders affect the ability to communicate and understand others, as well as mobility. Movieguide® previously reported:
Bruce Willis’ family updated his fans on his health, sharing that his condition “has progressed” from aphasia, and the actor has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia.
“Our family wanted to start by expressing our deepest gratitude for the incredible outpouring of love, support and wonderful stories we have all received since sharing Bruce’s original diagnosis,” Willis’ ex-wife, actress Demi Moore, wrote on Instagram. “In the spirit of that, we wanted to give you an update about our beloved husband, father and friend since we now have a deeper understanding of what he is experiencing.”
She continued, “Since we announced Bruce’s diagnosis of aphasia in spring 2022, Bruce’s condition has progressed and we now have a more specific diagnosis: frontotemporal dementia (known as FTD). Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces. While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis.”
Symptoms of FTD include unusual behaviors, emotional problems and difficulty communicating, working and walking.
“Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others, and to raise awareness about important issues both publicly and privately,” Willis’ family’s statement continued.
“We know in our hearts that—if he could today—he would want to respond by bringing global attention and a connectedness with those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it impacts so many individuals and their families,” the statement added.
It continued, “We have been so moved by the love you have all shared for our dear husband, father, and friend during this difficult time. Your continued compassion, understanding, and respect will enable us to help Bruce live as full a life as possible.”
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