Emma Heming has opened up about her husband Bruce Willis’ battle with dementia, providing valuable insights into their family’s journey. In an interview with Town & Country featured in the magazine’s November 2024 Philanthropy Issue, Heming discussed the challenges they face and how they are working together to navigate this difficult time.
Heming revealed that Willis’ condition, frontotemporal dementia, was misdiagnosed for a while before they received the correct diagnosis. This clarity has allowed her to better educate their two daughters, Mabel, 12, and Evelyn, 10, about their father’s illness. “I’ve never tried to sugarcoat anything for them,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to helping the children understand their father’s health issues.
In addition to the daughters she shares with Willis, Heming is part of a blended family, which includes Willis’s three adult daughters with ex-wife Demi Moore—Rumer, 36, Scout, 33, and Tallulah, 30. The family has rallied together since the February 2023 announcement of Willis’ diagnosis, providing emotional support to Heming as she cares for him. “They are always there to listen,” she said, expressing gratitude for the strong family bond they share.
Willis was first diagnosed with aphasia in 2022, prompting his retirement from acting, and it was later confirmed that he suffers from frontotemporal dementia. Heming highlighted how his long-standing stutter may have initially masked the symptoms of the disease, something she had never anticipated could happen to someone so young.
In her advocacy for frontotemporal dementia awareness, Heming is set to receive the Susan Newhouse & Si Newhouse Award of Hope from the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration next year. She aims to use her platform to raise awareness and support others facing similar challenges, stating, “This is bigger than me.”
Members of the family, including Moore, have provided updates on Willis’ health, with reports suggesting he remains stable despite the difficulties. Rumer has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and friends, highlighting the positive impact it has on their family during this challenging time.
This family’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and support in the face of life’s hardships. It shines a light on the resilience of families adapting to challenging circumstances while fostering love and understanding—something many can take inspiration from as they navigate their own struggles.
Overall, while Bruce Willis and his family face a daunting road ahead, their collective strength and love provide hope and encouragement to those in similar situations.