Emma Heming Willis, the wife of Bruce Willis, is preparing to release a book detailing her role as a caregiver to her husband following his diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia.
The untitled book, which will be published in 2025 by Maria Shriver’s publishing imprint the Open Field, will “offer a thoughtful, inspiring guide for those seeking support while navigating a loved one’s dementia.”
According to Heming Willis in an interview with Shriver’s newsletter, the Sunday Paper, many individuals first learn about this disease at their doctor’s office. It is crucial that doctors effectively communicate information to patients and their loved ones. Having easily accessible resources and information is essential. Based on her own experience and conversations with other care partners, Heming Willis notes that their stories are unfortunately similar. They left the doctor’s office with little to no resources or support, and a diagnosis that was difficult to even pronounce.
In March 2022, Willis’ family revealed that he would be stepping away from his acting career due to aphasia, a condition that affects language and speech. A year later, it was disclosed that he had been officially diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The National Institute on Aging states that FTD can lead to emotional challenges, communication difficulties, mobility issues, and work-related struggles.
After his diagnosis became known, colleagues in the entertainment industry who had collaborated with Willis shared that they had been privately expressing their worries about his mental abilities for some time. They noticed that he had difficulty recalling lines, required scripts to be modified for brevity, seemed confused by his surroundings, and needed shorter work hours. The Razzie awards, which honor the most subpar movies and acting performances, had even introduced a category specifically for Willis’ numerous roles in 2021, but removed it once news of his condition came to light.
Heming Willis announced in September that she had taken on the role of primary caregiver for Willis and expressed uncertainty about whether the 68-year-old actor fully comprehended his diagnosis.
Heming Willis shared with the Sunday Paper that her outlook has greatly improved since her husband, Bruce, was initially diagnosed. She now has a better understanding of the disease and has found a supportive community. She has also found a new sense of purpose, using her platform to assist and uplift others.
The author expressed her desire for her book to aid “care partners, particularly those who are new to the role, after receiving this life-altering news…they should know they are not alone and that there is support and even hope. In an ideal scenario, I envision this book being handed to patients by their doctor during a visit, to take home and read.”
In 2009, Heming Willis and Willis tied the knot and now have two daughters as a result of their union.
Source: theguardian.com
