Céline Dion has disclosed that she experienced symptoms of stiff-person syndrome (SPS) for approximately 17 years before her formal diagnosis in August 2022. SPS is a rare neurological disorder characterized by severe muscle stiffness and painful, unpredictable spasms.
Dion shared in a recent interview that during those years, her condition became so severe it impacted her mobility, making it difficult to walk. At times, she relied on high doses of Valium to manage her symptoms and maintain basic function.
Before her diagnosis, Dion reportedly felt guilt over attributing canceled performances to less severe ailments like sinus infections or coughs, while privately struggling with the debilitating effects of SPS. As her unexplained health issues escalated around the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dion significantly reduced her public appearances, concerned that fans might question her canceled shows if they saw her living a seemingly normal life.
In December 2022, Dion publicly announced her diagnosis in an emotional video posted on Instagram. She explained that while research into the rare condition was ongoing, it was the cause of her spasms, which affected her daily life, including walking and her ability to sing.
Following the announcement, Dion postponed European concerts and subsequently canceled the remainder of her Courage World Tour, including all planned dates for 2023 and 2024. Since her diagnosis, she has been undergoing intensive rehabilitation to manage the condition and work towards a return to performing. Her regimen includes medication, physical and vocal therapy, and immunotherapy.
Dion has gradually re-entered the public sphere. In February 2024, she made her first public appearance since 2020 at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, presenting the award for album of the year. That summer, she promoted her documentary, "I Am: Céline Dion," and attended its New York premiere. In July, she performed Édith Piaf’s "Hymne à l’amour" from the Eiffel Tower during the Paris 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony.
In November 2024, Dion performed at a fashion show in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Earlier this year, she announced a five-week residency in Paris scheduled to begin in September. Dion described this upcoming residency as a significant birthday gift, expressing excitement, gratitude, and a touch of nervousness about performing for her fans again.
Her current recovery regimen, as detailed in the interview, includes three 90-minute Pilates sessions per week and ballet classes on other days. Dion stated that reconnecting with her fans is central to her comeback, aiming to offer them something to show how much she has missed them.