On Sunday, which also happened to be Emma Heming’s 45th birthday, as well as Father’s Day, she posted a number of photos celebrating Bruce.
But she also shared a devastating plea…
Earlier this year, 68-year-old Willis disclosed his diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia, just a year after retiring from acting due to an initial aphasia diagnosis. In a statement, his family acknowledged that difficulties in communication were just one symptom of the disease he faces.
They also highlighted the cruelty of frontotemporal dementia (FTD), the most common form of dementia affecting individuals under 60, and expressed hope for future advancements in treatment.
“The veteran actor has been experiencing some health issues and has recently been diagnosed with aphasia, which is impacting his cognitive abilities,” his family’s Instagram statement read at the time.
“As a result of this and with much consideration Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him. This is a challenging time for our family and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion, and support.”
They continued: “We are moving through this as a strong family unit, and wanted to bring his fans in because we know how much he means to you, as you do to him. As Bruce always says, ‘Live it up’ and together we plan to do just that.”
Then, earlier this year, his family issued an update on his condition, and confirmed that his condition had progressed from aphasia to a more specific diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia.
Their statement read: “As a family, we wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for the outpouring of love and compassion for Bruce over the past ten months,” they wrote, adding: “Your generosity of spirit has been overwhelming, and we are tremendously grateful for it. For your kindness, and because we know you love Bruce as much as we do, we wanted to give you an update. “
They 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.”
Following this devastating news, members of the family shared the first video of the star after his diagnosis.
A clip of Bruce celebrating his sixty-eighth birthday was shared online, showing Bruce talking and laughing surrounded by his family, while they all sang happy birthday to him.
His ex-wife Demi Moore captioned the sweet post: “Happy birthday, BW! So glad we could celebrate you today. Love you and love our family. Thank you to everyone for the love and warm wishes — we all feel them.”
Since the news, Willis’ family have tried to make the actor as comfortable as possible while dealing with such a tragic shift in his personality.
But recently, Emma Heming took to Instagram to share a devastating plea.
“Hi! It’s my birthday and I’ve had an epic week getting to celebrate with some of my beloved family and friends,” Emma said, encouraging people to contact or phone a carer to let them know you’re available to help when they need time away.
“I’m making a few BIG birthday wishes! This one I hope you could make a reality,” the post continued.
“Text or call a person in your life that’s a caregiver and let them know here is X, Y, or Z I can do to help you this week. If the caregiver says, ‘I’m fine, I don’t need anything’, which most likely is what they just might say, then drop some food at their doorstep or flowers or a small something and text them after to let them know it’s there.
“Or honestly, just tell them thank you and that they are doing a great job. That kindness and support will go such a long long way.”
Emma also shared a pic of Willis, in tribute to “the greatest dad.”
“Father’s Day is a time I get to reflect on my deep appreciation and respect I have for Bruce as I watch him father our little ones,” she wrote. “Where it might not be ‘conventional’, what he’s teaching them will span generations. Unconditional love, kindness, strength, compassion, patience, generosity, resilience.
“Happy Father’s Day to the greatest dad I know, who will forever be the gift that keeps giving within our family.”
