Bruce Willis's family is reportedly "praying for a Christmas miracle" as the acclaimed actor continues his battle with aphasia.
Back in March, it was announced that the 67-year-old retired actor had been diagnosed with the disorder - which is caused by damage to a specific area in the brain that controls language expression and comprehension, leaving the sufferer unable to communicate effectively with others, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Ex-wife Demi Moore - who was married to Willis from 1987-2000 and shares three daughters with him - and his current wife Emma Heming have worked together to help the Die Hard actor communicate effectively. They spoke about his condition in an Instagram post in March.
"This is a really challenging time for our family and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion,n and support. We are moving through this as a strong family unit, and wanted to bring his fans in because we know how much he means to you, as you do to him. As Bruce always says, 'Live it up' and together we plan to do just that," part of the caption read.
Over the past few months, Willis's condition has slowly declined, with a source close to the family telling RadarOnline: "Demi has been in constant contact with Bruce and Emma. She's taking every opportunity she can to spend time with him. If she's not there by his side, she's calling on the phone just so Bruce can hear her voice."
"They know he won't be around forever. So they're cherishing every single moment," the source added.
Per The Daily Mail, the blended family - Moore, Willis, and their three children along with Willis's two children with Heming - will be spending Christmas together in Idaho.
A further source told the outlet: "Bruce can't say much, and it doesn't seem like he's grasping much of what others say. So Emma's really been the voice and communicator for him. There are days when they see glimpses of the old Bruce, but they are brief and far between."
They added: "It seems he's slipping further away from them and it breaks their heart. The girls can't imagine Christmas without Bruce.
"The older girls miss the old Bruce - the one who used to tease them about their boyfriends and give them unsolicited advice [...] all they can do is tell them they love him and pray for a holiday miracle."
Last month, fellow actor and friend of Willis - Sylvester Stallone - spoke about Willis's condition, saying: "Bruce is going through some really, really difficult times. So he's been sort of incommunicado. That kills me. It's so sad."
This year, Willis released 12 film, and has completed another movie which is set for release in 2023, per The Guardian.
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