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The family of Bruce Willis stated in a statement that was published on Thursday that Willis has a more specific diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia.
Bruce Willis' family says that his "condition has progressed" nearly a year after they announced that he would stop acting after being diagnosed with aphasia.
Willis's family stated in a statement released on Thursday that the 67-year-old actor has a more specific diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia.
The statement read, "While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis." Many of us have never heard of FTD, a cruel disease that can affect anyone.
Willis's family said in March that his aphasia had affected his ability to think. The condition results in diminished speech understanding and expression.
His family stated in the statement on Thursday that difficulties with communication were only one symptom of frontotemporal dementia.
According to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration, FTD is a group of disorders that affect behavior, language, and movement and are caused by degeneration of the frontal and/or temporal lobes of the brain. Aphasia can be one of its symptoms. Frontotemporal degeneration is referred to by the association as "an inevitable decline in functioning," with an average life expectancy of seven to thirteen years following the onset of symptoms.
The family's statement said, "Today there are no treatments for the disease, a reality that we hope can change in the years ahead." It also said that getting the right diagnosis can take years. As Bruce's condition worsens, we hope that the media will focus on this disease, which requires far more research and awareness.
The statement was signed by Willis' ex-wife Demi Moore, his five children Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, and Evelyn, and was posted on the website of the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration.
Willis' films had grossed more than $5 billion worldwide over his four-decade career. The prolific actor had primarily appeared in direct-to-video thrillers in recent years, despite being adored for hits like "Die Hard" and "The Sixth Sense."
The family stated on Thursday that "Bruce has always found joy in life — and has helped everyone he knows to do the same." Seeing that sentiment of concern echo back to him and to all of us has meant the world. Throughout this trying time, we have been so moved by your love for our beloved husband, father, and friend. We will be able to help Bruce live as full a life as possible with your continued compassion, understanding, and respect.