Céline Dion was filmed enduring an excruciating 10-minute-long “seizure” provoked by Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS). A clip of the vulnerable scene was featured in the singer’s new documentary, “I Am: Céline Dion,” released on Prime Video.
In this moving segment, the 56-year-old could be seen writhing in pain, tearful, and flushed while lying on an examination table, unable to move.
The scene displayed the talented singer during a physical therapy session shortly after recording a new song titled “Love Again.” In the clip, medical professionals work to alleviate her painful muscle spasms, eventually administering a nasal spray to help.
The treatment Céline received was a benzodiazepine nasal spray, a drug used to relieve anxiety and reduce muscle spasms, according to her physician, Dr. Amanda Piquet.
Shared ahead of the documentary’s release, the clip showed doctors gently laying Céline in a comfortable position and checking her vitals.
At one point, the camera focused on Céline’s bare feet, which looked extremely rigid, before showing her finally able to sit upright and cover herself with a blanket.
The mother of three was then filmed saying, “Every time something like this happens, it makes you feel so embarrassed and so, like, I don’t know how to express it, it’s just… you know, like, to not have control of yourself…”
She continued: “I still see myself dance and sing… If I can’t run, I’ll walk. If I can’t walk, I’ll crawl. But I won’t stop.”
Irene Taylor, who directed the documentary, said she initially hesitated to film during the attack but decided to continue as Céline had instructed her not to seek permission before filming anything.
After the episode, Céline insisted that the nearly 10-minute spasm be included in the documentary. Irene recounted that Céline assured her they could discuss it later if she was uncomfortable with it.
“Believe it or not, she left the location in very high spirits,” Irene said. “And she was actually taking care of me.”
Before driving away, Céline reached out her hand and said, “Don’t worry about what happened.” This gesture showed her strength and willingness to share her experiences publicly, despite their deeply personal nature.
In December of last year, Céline revealed her diagnosis of the incurable neurological condition and canceled her upcoming tour dates. Claudette, Céline’s older sister, expressed her hope that Céline would one day return to the stage, albeit uncertain in what capacity.
Céline stunned the world when she appeared at the 66th Grammy Awards, escorted by her son René-Charles, to present the final award of the night. She emotionally thanked the audience, expressing how much she cherished the love and joy music brings to people’s lives.
Stiff Person Syndrome is a rare neurological disease with autoimmune features, causing severe muscle spasms and rigidity that can even lead to broken bones. According to the Stiff Person Syndrome Research Foundation, the exact prevalence is uncertain, but it’s estimated to affect about 1 in 1,000,000 individuals.
Céline shared in her documentary that she had been experiencing symptoms for 17 years. Though the spasms and stiffness are constant, movements or emotional stress can trigger whole-body spasms.
Dr. Amanda Piquet further explained that what Céline experiences are intense muscle spasms, not seizures, and that there has been significant progress in managing her symptoms. Céline’s treatment includes physical therapy, intravenous immunoglobulin, and muscle relaxers.
“It’s not a seizure,” Amanda clarified. “This is a spasm that is occurring, and patients are aware of what’s going on. There’s a lot of anxiety, there’s a lot of panic, your adrenaline’s rushing.”
Despite the challenges, Céline remains inspiringly resilient. Her story continues to shed light on Stiff Person Syndrome and the realities faced by those living with it. Fans worldwide support her, offering love, strength, and encouragement as she navigates this difficult journey.
