Bruce Willis’ Family Shares Heartfelt Update on His FTD Journey and Children’s Grief

Bruce Willis’ wife, Emma Heming Willis, has shared a poignant update on their family’s life. She spoke with Vogue Australia about their experience nearly three years after his frontotemporal dementia diagnosis. Their two young daughters are navigating the profound changes.

Emma revealed how their children, Mabel and Evelyn, are processing their father’s condition. The family continues to find moments of joy amidst the ongoing challenges of the disease.

Children Confront Profound Loss Amid Father’s Illness

Emma stated that their daughters are doing well considering the circumstances. She was candid about the difficulty of their reality. The girls are grieving and miss their dad deeply.

According to Emma, the children feel his absence during important life milestones. She acknowledged their resilience but noted the lasting impact. The family is learning to adapt to their new normal together.

She explained her own need to walk alongside her grief daily. Emma has channeled her experience into a new book for caregivers. The work is titled “The Unexpected Journey.”

Finding Light and Love in the Midst of Grief

Despite the hardship, Emma emphasized that beautiful moments still exist. She shared that Bruce still laughs and smiles, retaining his characteristic twinkle. The family actively works to preserve memories.

The couple’s young daughters keep a notebook of words and memories about their father. This helps them hold onto precious moments. Emma wants people to know that joy and laughter remain in their lives.

She reflected that grief is the price of deep love. This perspective helps frame their ongoing journey. The entire family continues to show immense strength and unity.

The Willis family’s public sharing offers a window into the realities of FTD. Their story highlights the resilience needed when facing a progressive neurological condition. Bruce Willis’ legacy is now intertwined with raising crucial awareness for frontotemporal dementia.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is frontotemporal dementia (FTD)?

Frontotemporal dementia is a group of disorders caused by progressive nerve cell loss. It primarily affects the brain’s frontal and temporal lobes. This leads to changes in behavior, personality, and language skills.

How old are Bruce and Emma Willis’ daughters?

Their daughters Mabel and Evelyn are currently 13 and 11 years old. Bruce is also father to three adult daughters from his previous marriage to Demi Moore. The blended family remains very close.

What was Bruce Willis’ initial diagnosis?

Bruce Willis was first diagnosed with aphasia in 2022. His condition later progressed, leading to a more specific frontotemporal dementia diagnosis in 2023. His family announced this update in February of that year.

How is the family coping with the diagnosis?

The family is focusing on creating a supportive environment and cherishing positive moments. Emma has spoken about learning to coexist with grief. They find strength in their shared love and commitment.

Has Bruce Willis retired from acting?

Yes, Bruce Willis stepped away from his acting career following his aphasia diagnosis. His condition impacts his cognitive and communication abilities. His final filmed projects were released in 2023.