A favorite singer of mine now for decades. Many are now also asking why her SPS suddenly was enhanced after the vax. But that’s another story…
After enduring 17 years of undiagnosed stiff-person syndrome (SPS) symptoms, Céline Dion is now reflecting on her journey with a sense of gratitude. In a candid revelation in PEOPLE’s cover story, the 56-year-old music icon shares the challenging progression of her symptoms which started in the mid-2000s. These included muscle spasms, difficulty breathing, and severe “crisis” episodes where her body would completely lock up, causing immense pain.
Celine Dion says she was taking 90 milligrams of Valium a day to cope with symptoms of Stiff Person Syndrome — far beyond the maximum recommended dosage of 40 milligrams.
“I did not know honestly that it could kill me. Ninety milligrams of Valium can kill you, you can stop… pic.twitter.com/ZmkcdRDRlL
— Variety (@Variety) June 12, 2024
The ordeal began while Dion was on tour in Germany nearly two decades ago, where a simple vocal exercise triggered her first spasm. Despite trying various treatments ranging from steam showers to over-the-counter drugs, and consulting numerous specialists, her condition remained a mystery. As her symptoms worsened, she was prescribed increasing doses of muscle relaxants, including Valium, reaching a high of 90 milligrams during one performance—a dose she later learned could have been lethal.
Dion’s battle with SPS remained largely private until her diagnosis in August 2022, which led to a rigorous treatment regime involving medication, immune therapy, vocal therapy, and intense physical rehabilitation. She now undergoes treatment five days a week, an endeavor she approaches with enthusiasm, highlighting her commitment to maintaining her health and voice.
In a new interview, Celine Dion shares that on the journey to figure out what was going on with her health she was given Valium to relax her muscles for shows. As time went on she had to take more and more. She got to a point where she was taking 90 milligrams a day (typical dose… pic.twitter.com/QkYf68qETc
— Mr. Pop (@MrPopOfficial) June 12, 2024
Her physician, Dr. Amanda Piquet, director of the autoimmune neurology program at the University of Colorado, diagnosed Dion and has been instrumental in managing her treatment. Dr. Piquet emphasized the difficulty in treating SPS due to the lack of FDA-approved therapies and the necessity of relying on off-label treatments. She noted that while some patients see improvements, more clinical research is crucial to determine the most effective treatments.
Dion’s decision to publicly share her experiences with SPS has brought much-needed attention to the disorder, which is often misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease. Dr. Piquet is hopeful about the impact of Dion’s openness, suggesting it could inspire others suffering from SPS and contribute to broader awareness and understanding.
As she continues her treatment, Dion remains focused on her recovery and eventual return to performing. Her story is not just one of medical challenges but also of resilience and determination, serving as an inspiration for those facing similar difficulties. Through sharing her journey, Dion aims to raise awareness and advocate for further research into SPS, offering hope to others afflicted by this complex condition.
Major Points
- Céline Dion has been managing symptoms of stiff-person syndrome (SPS) for 17 years, which were initially undiagnosed and included severe muscle spasms and breathing difficulties.
- Her health journey became public with a detailed account in PEOPLE’s cover story and an emotional documentary titled “I Am: Celine Dion.”
- Dion’s treatment regimen includes medication, immune therapy, vocal therapy, and intensive physical rehabilitation, occurring five days a week.
- Dr. Amanda Piquet, an expert in autoimmune neurology, emphasizes the lack of FDA-approved treatments for SPS, underscoring the necessity of off-label treatments and the need for more clinical research.
- Dion’s openness about her condition aims to raise awareness and improve understanding of SPS, potentially helping others with similar symptoms find accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
Susan Guglielmo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News