Rumer Willis, the oldest child of actor Bruce Willis, recently gave an update on her father’s health at the Jhpiego Laughter Is the Best Medicine Gala. She stated to several news sources that Bruce Willis, renowned for his roles in “Die Hard” and “Pulp Fiction,” is currently managing well despite his ongoing health issues.
In 2022, Bruce Willis, 69, received a diagnosis of aphasia, which later developed into frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a disorder characterized by emotional disturbances, unusual behaviors, and communication problems, according to the National Institute on Aging. His initial announcement of aphasia led him to retire from acting. Since then, the condition has progressed, leading his family to engage in more public discussions about it.
In her conversation with Extra, Rumer Willis expressed gratitude for the ongoing support and affection her father has been receiving, citing his character as the reason. “As a family, especially my sisters and I, we’re just so grateful for the love that comes at him,” she remarked. She further added that the public’s reaction is a testament to the type of person he is.
Rumer, who recently posted a photo on Instagram of her father with her one-year-old daughter, Louetta, highlighted the importance of broadcasting their family’s journey. In a conversation with Fox News Digital, she stated, “What’s been so incredible is my dad is so beloved. I think if there’s any way sharing our experience brings hope — whatever comes forward as a family — that can have an effect and bring any sort of hope, comfort to someone else experiencing that, then to me, that’s … everything.”
Rumer also provided some insight into the principles she learned from both her parents, who are well-known figures in Hollywood. She noted that the respect Bruce Willis and Demi Moore showed for everyone on a movie set, regardless of their position, has greatly influenced her. “I feel like what I learned from them was just by watching,” she said. “Being on set, one of the biggest things I would say, just by proxy, you treat everyone with the same amount of respect, whether you’re in front of the camera, behind the camera, from the littlest job. Like, it doesn’t matter.”
The openness of the Willis family about Bruce Willis’ health issue appears to be aimed at promoting a broader comprehension and conversation about frontotemporal dementia, a condition that is less well-known compared to other forms of dementia. By sharing their personal experiences, the Willis family hopes to provide solace and support to others dealing with similar situations.