Celine Dion has stated that she has stiff-person syndrome (SPS), a rare neurological illness that causes muscle stiffness and severe muscle spasms.

In her first public appearance after being diagnosed, the singer shared a heartfelt message with her fans on Saturday. The actress, dressed in a purple and white blazer, offered heartfelt comments to her followers.

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“I’ve been dealing with problems with my health for a long time, and it’s been really difficult for me to face these challenges and to talk about everything that I’ve been going through…It hurts me to tell you that I won’t be ready to restart my tour in Europe in February,” she said in the video.

The message was displayed alongside the footage read-  “Celine Dion reschedules Spring 2023 shows to 2024, and cancels eight of her summer 2023 shows.”

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Fans were quick to send Celine their best wishes, with one writing: “Please take care of yourself, Celine,” wrote one, while another added, “We are sending you so much love right now!” Maintain your strength and take care of yourself!” “Take care, and I hope you feel better soon,” a third person wrote. Since breaking her news, the singer has been relatively silent on social media, with her crew making postings for her.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, SPS is an extremely rare degenerative neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord (NINDS).

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It affects approximately one in a million people, with women being twice as likely as males.  Symptoms of SPS may include stiff muscles in the trunk, arms, and legs. SPS patients may also be more sensitive to noise, touch, and emotional distress. According to the institution, people with SPS may eventually develop aberrant, hunched-over postures or become unable to walk or move.

Furthermore, falls are common since the illness can impair people’s ability to catch themselves. These falls can cause serious damage.