Legendary Canadian singer Celine Dion has put a halt on all performances for the foreseeable future after being diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder.
In an emotional video message posted in French and English earlier this month, Dion said stiff person syndrome is causing spasms that affect her ability to walk and sing.
“Unfortunately, the spasms affect every aspect of my daily life, sometimes causing difficulties when I walk and not allowing me to use my vocal cords to sing the way I’m used to,” she said.
Dion said she had no choice but to postpone her “Courage” tour, which was to restart in February after several delays. Her spring 2023 shows have been moved to 2024 and her summer 2023 concerts have been canceled.
“I miss seeing all of you, being on the stage, performing for you. I always give 100% when I do my shows, but my condition is not allowing me to give you that right now,” she said.
Stiff person syndrome causes rigid muscles and painful muscle spasms, which can be triggered by such things as loud noises or light touch. The cause isn’t known but it is thought to be an autoimmune disorder. Severe cases can cause difficulty walking and hunched posture.
Dion, who has five Grammy Awards and two Academy Awards, is the best-selling female artist of all time with hits like “I’m Alive” and “My Heart Will Go On.”
She is one of the most beloved singers among Caribbean nationals, and is particularly adored by Jamaicans and Haitians. She performed in Jamaica in 2012 at the Jazz and Blues Music Festival.
