Frontotemporal dementia, or FTD, is a group of incurable neurological disorders that primarily affect language, personality and behavior.
The family of Bruce Willis announced that the retired actor has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
Willis, 67, retired from acting in April after his family announced that he was suffering from language and cognition disorder aphasia. On Thursday, family members including his wife Emma Heming Willis, five children and ex-wife Demi Moore issued a statement thanking fans for an “outpouring of love and compassion,” while revealing that the star’s condition had “progressed” and resulted in a diagnosis of FTD.
“Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces,” the family said. “While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis. FTD is a cruel disease that many of us have never heard of and can strike anyone. For people under 60, FTD is the most common form of dementia.”
“Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others,” they continued.
