In a recent statement they explained that the actor “has a busy schedule with activities” to make sure “both his body and brain are exercised”
Bruce Willis at a New York premiere on October 11, 2019. One year after announcing he would retire from acting due to aphasia, the 67-year-old actor's family said in a statement that he has a diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia. (Photo Charles Sykes/Invision/AP, File)
Following his diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia a few days ago, the stepfamily of actor Bruce Willis came together to create a routine of activities so that both his brain and body exercise and he can live a more fulfilling life.
The star's family, wife Emma Heming Willis, daughters Mabel, 10, and Evelyn, 8, along with ex-wife Demi Moore and daughters Rumer, 34, Scout, 31 , and Tallulah, 29, have focused on helping him “live as full a life as possible,” according to a recent family statement.
“Bruce's goal is to keep him active. He has a busy schedule with activities every day. They make sure that both their bodies and brains are exercised,” a family source told PEOPLE in this week's issue.
“The family is closer than ever,” the source explained, adding that Emma, 44, is trying to create as many positive memories for Mabel and Evelyn as she can. “She wants Bruce to be remembered as an amazing and fun dad. He wants them to have the best memories of him.”
Bruce Willis with his family. From left to right: Emma Heming Willis, Demi Moore, Bruce Willis, Scout, Tallulah Mabel, Evelyn, and Rumer.
The family gave an update on the 67-year-old actor's health in a statement Thursday, 11 months after they revealed he was diagnosed with aphasia, a language disorder that affects his cognitive abilities, the magazine said.
< p class="paragraph">“Since we announced Bruce's aphasia diagnosis in spring 2022, Bruce's condition has progressed and we now have a more specific diagnosis: frontotemporal dementia (known as FTD )”.
“Unfortunately, the challenges with communication are just one symptom of the illness Bruce is facing. While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis,” the statement continued.
“Bruce has always believed in using his voice in the world to help others and raise awareness about important issues both in public and in private. We know in our hearts that if I could today, I would want to respond by bringing global attention and a connection to those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it affects so many people and their families.”
The first statement published by the current wife of Bruce Willis on Instagram. (Photo: IG @emmahemingwillis)
The family added: “Bruce has always found joy in life, and has helped everyone he knows to do the same.”
In closing, they expressed appreciation for everyone's outpouring of support: “We have been so touched by the love that everyone has shared for our beloved husband, father and friend over the years. this difficult time. Your continued compassion, understanding and respect will enable us to help Bruce live as full a life as possible.”
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