Emma Heming Willis has shared heartfelt reflections while supporting her husband Bruce Willis through his diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Speaking in an upcoming interview with Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America, Emma described with emotion how brief moments of Bruce’s warmth still shine through despite the disease’s toll.
She recalled seeing the familiar sparkle in Bruce’s eye and hearing his distinctive hearty laugh, which briefly bring back memories of the man she has always known.
“It’s his laugh, right? He has such a hearty laugh,”
Emma said.
“And sometimes you’ll see that twinkle in his eye, or that smirk. I just get transported.”
These fleeting glimpses offer comfort but are often followed by a sudden return to the confusion brought on by dementia, making the experience deeply bittersweet.
Noticing Early Signs Before the Official Diagnosis
Before Bruce Willis’s FTD diagnosis was confirmed, Emma began to notice subtle and troubling changes in his personality during family gatherings. Where Bruce had once been lively and engaged, he became quieter and increasingly withdrawn, which alarmed Emma deeply.
She described the shift as frightening, especially because it was hard to understand what was happening. When doctors finally named the illness, Emma felt overwhelmed and unsure, admitting she felt like she was free-falling in the unknown. She also believes Bruce did not fully grasp the extent or meaning of his illness.
Finding Strength Through Gratitude Amid Hardship
Despite the heartache, Emma emphasized the importance of appreciating the meaningful moments they continue to share. Bruce, now 70, still shows glimpses of his former self, providing the family with laughter and connection during difficult times.
She highlighted the challenges faced with diagnosing FTD, noting it is frequently misdiagnosed as depression or bipolar disorder, which complicates awareness and treatment. Emma’s openness about their journey aims to raise understanding and reduce stigma around this condition.
Ultimately, she focuses on gratitude, finding comfort in the fact that her husband remains present in the lives of his loved ones. Emma’s reflections offer a sincere glimpse into coping with dementia as a family while advocating for greater recognition of this complex disease.
