Bruce Willis’ wife, Emma Heming Willis, recently shared a heartfelt message about the profound impact her husband’s dementia has had on their lives. In a video posted on her Instagram, Emma spoke candidly about the challenges of Bruce’s diagnosis and her efforts to raise awareness for Frontotemporal Dementia.
Emma emphasized the importance of advocacy in dealing with the disease, noting how New York and California now recognize Frontotemporal Dementia Awareness Week. She encouraged her followers to campaign for similar recognition in their own states by contacting their local senators. This, she believes, can bring about the necessary changes to support families affected by FTD.
In her message, Emma shared personal reflections, saying, “I have many reasons why I advocate. But one of them is that this is a way for me and our family to be able to take our power back in this. FTD has a way of rewriting your whole life. But, by advocating for our family and for someone else’s family, I feel like that has really been the secret sauce. It has motivated me and made me feel better about this journey.”
Emma’s video caption further highlighted her commitment to raising awareness: “Becoming an FTD advocate has brought some power and control back in my life where this disease just takes. Being able to use my voice for my family and to be of service to the next family is empowering and has made this journey bearable.”
Emma dedicates her time to caring for Bruce, who was diagnosed with FTD last spring, a year after his family revealed he was suffering from aphasia, a language disorder. FTD patients can experience various symptoms, including unusual behaviors, emotional problems, communication difficulties, and challenges with work or walking, according to The National Institute on Aging.