Actress Tallulah Willis has given a candid update on her father, Bruce Willis, as he faces the challenges of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The 29-year-old shared insights about her family’s openness about the diagnosis during an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show.
Bruce Willis, the 68-year-old movie star, was initially diagnosed with aphasia, a disease that affects language and communication skills. Over time, the diagnosis has progressed to frontotemporal dementia, a rare form of dementia that primarily affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain.
Expressing gratitude
Despite the changing nature of Bruce’s condition, Tallulah expressed gratitude that her father remains fundamentally unchanged. “He’s the same, and I think in that sense I’ve learned that’s the best thing you can ask for,” she shared with Drew Barrymore.
Tallulah emphasized the lasting connection and love she feels when spending time with her father, highlighting special moments in their relationship. “I see love when I’m with him, and he’s my dad, and he loves me, which is really special,” she added.
Drew Barrymore, during the interview, asked about the family’s decision to be open about Bruce’s struggle with FTD. Tallulah explained that his transparency is rooted in both family identity and a desire to raise awareness about the disease.
“Well, I think it’s twofold. On the one hand, it’s about who we are as a family, but it’s also very important for us to raise awareness,” Tallulah shared. “If we can take something we’re struggling with as a family to help other people, turn it around and do something beautiful about it, that’s really special to us.”
Additionally, she revealed that part of her healing process involves delving into her father’s world, exploring his prized belongings, and gaining insight into his life. This journey, described as becoming an “archaeologist” of his father’s world, has been a significant aspect of addressing the challenges posed by FTD.
Bruce Willis shares a blended family with his ex-wife Demi Moore and his current wife Emma Heming Willis. Tallulah has older sisters, Rumer and Scout, from Bruce’s marriage to Moore, as well as younger siblings, Mabel and Evelyn, from her marriage to Heming Willis.
The entire family has stuck together, offering each other support and keeping the public informed about Bruce Willis’ journey with dementia. His commitment to openness and awareness has resonated with many, shedding light on the impact of FTD and the strength found in family bonds during difficult times.
Categories: Biography
Source: vcmp.edu.vn