In a heart-wrenching new documentary, “I Am: Celine Dion,” the legendary singer shares her courageous journey living with stiff person syndrome, a rare and progressive neurological disorder.
The film offers an unfiltered look at her struggles, including a terrifying medical crisis during a physical therapy session.
Dion, 56, revealed her diagnosis in 2022, admitting she had been experiencing symptoms for 17 years. Despite her efforts to manage her condition, she faced numerous challenges during her 2018 and 2019 tours, including difficulty hitting certain notes and canceling shows due to “unknown” reasons.
The documentary exposes the harsh reality of living with stiff person syndrome, showcasing a personal moment where Dion’s body suddenly seizes up during physical therapy. Her foot cramps, and her entire body becomes rigid, leaving her unable to move or speak.
The camera captures her distress as her medical team rushes to administer benzodiazepine, a nasal spray to alleviate her spasms.
Once the episode passes, Dion expresses her frustration and embarrassment, longing to regain control over her body. Her physical therapist attributes the attack to being “overstimulated” from an earlier singing session, leaving Dion wondering if she’ll ever be able to return to the stage without fear of another episode.
Through this intimate documentary, Dion bravely shares her story, offering a glimpse into the challenges of living with a rare condition. Her resilience and determination inspire hope for a future where she can once again shine on stage, doing what she loves most – singing.
