Celine Dion is poised for a remarkable return to the spotlight despite contending with stiff-person syndrome (SPS), a rare neurological disorder, according to Metro UK.
The renowned 56-year-old singer has reportedly been invited to perform at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics, despite her ongoing battle with the condition.
Dion disclosed her diagnosis in 2022—a condition that causes muscle stiffness and spasms.
SPS, often misdiagnosed as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, or anxiety, is a rare neurological condition which causes rigid muscles and painful spasms. According to the National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), it is characterised by “abnormal postures, often hunched over and stiffened” and affects twice as many women as men.
There is no known cure, but it is treatable through anti-anxiety drugs, muscle relaxants, anti-convulsant medication, pain relievers and immunoglobulin therapy, which can help reduce stiffness and lower sensitivity to noise, touch and other stressors.
However, Celine has expressed her eagerness to return to live performances, which have defined her illustrious career. Sources close to the singer reveal that she views the Paris Olympics as a pivotal opportunity to reclaim the stage she cherishes.
In an interview with The Sun’s Bizarre column, an insider disclosed, “Celine has been very open about her desire to return to performing, and Paris would provide the perfect stage for her comeback.”
Unlike her customary full-length concerts, this performance would involve singing a single song during the grand opening ceremony, marking a manageable return for the artist.
While Celine Dion is enthusiastic about the prospect of performing at such a globally renowned event, the decision remains pending.
The source said, “The formal offer to perform was extended earlier this year, and Celine is working tirelessly to make it a reality. She has made significant strides and continues to grow stronger each day, though challenges persist. Everyone is hopeful it will come to fruition—it would be a truly momentous occasion.”
Throughout her battle with stiff-person syndrome, Celine Dion has displayed resilience, refusing to let her diagnosis define her. In her recent documentary, “I Am: Celine Dion,” she candidly shared her journey and hopes to raise awareness about the little-known condition.
Reflecting on her experiences, Dion stated, “These past few years have been incredibly challenging for me—from discovering my condition to learning how to live with it without letting it define me.”
As she continues on the path to resume her performing career, Dion emphasised her dedication to using her platform to shed light on stiff-person syndrome, saying, “During my time away, I decided to document this chapter of my life to raise awareness about this condition and support others who are going through similar experiences.”
As fans and the global community anticipate updates on whether Celine Dion will grace the stage at the Paris Olympics, her potential performance serves as a testament to her resilience, determination, and unwavering passion for music.
The opening ceremony of the Olympics is scheduled to take place on 26th July 2024 in Paris, France while the closing ceremony is slated for 11th August 2024.
For the first time in the competition’s history, this year’s opening ceremony, directed by Thomas Jolly, will be held outside an Olympics stadium.
The ceremony is estimated to have about six hundred thousand spectators in attendance and broadcast to 80 giant screens in public.
The 1750-capacity hall opened in 1968 and has served as a tour stop for various legends, including Adele, Lady Gaga and the Rolling Stones.