Hollywood stars have sent their love to Bruce Willis after it was announced that he has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia.
On Thursday (February 16), the 67-year-old Die Hard actor's family provided fans with an update - almost a year after disclosing that Willis had been diagnosed with aphasia.
In a joint statement shared by them, they revealed that Willis's condition has advanced and that now he has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, which is known as FTD.
"Bruce's condition has progressed and we now have a more specific diagnosis: frontotemporal dementia (known as FTD)," they wrote. "Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces. While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis."
Read the family statement below:In a full statement on The Association for Frontotemporal Dementia website, the family described the condition as a "cruel disease," and went on to say that "FTD is the most common form of dementia, and because getting the diagnosis can take years, FTD is likely much more prevalent than we know".
The family said that "as Bruce’s condition advances, we hope that any media attention can be focused on shining a light on this disease that needs far more awareness and research.
"Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others, and to raise awareness about important issues both publicly and privately," they continued.
"We know in our hearts that - if he could today - he would want to respond by bringing global attention and connectedness with those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it impacts so many individuals and their families," they added.
The statement was shared by Willis's family members including wife Emma Heming Willis, daughters Rumer and Talulah, and ex-wife Demi Moore.
Upon seeing the heartbreaking Instagram post, many stars in the entertainment industry sent their love and well wishes to the Sixth Sense actor.
Breaking Bad actor Aaron Paul replied to Willis's daughter Rumer, and wrote: "Love you so much my friend! Sending hugs to you and that beautiful family of yours. Your pops is such a damn legend."
Willis's ex-wife - with whom he has remained close friends - also shared a post about the actor's diagnosis and it received many responses from celebrities.
Singer Demi Lovato replied: "Sending so much love," while Michelle Pfeiffer, who starred with the actor in The Story of Us (1999), penned: "Thank you. Sending love."
Melanie Griffith - Willis's co-star in The Bonfire of the Vanities (1990) and Nobody’s Fool (1994) - sent five heart emojis, while Sleepless in Seattle actress Rita Wilson wrote: "Thank you for sharing this with us. Sending Bruce and all the family love."
Comedian/actor Marlon Wayans heartwarmingly said: "Love to you, him and the family. You’re an amazing human. It’s beautiful to honor him and your family the way you are. Makes my heart smile,” while Seth Green added: "Love you all. Thank you for sharing this with us. Biggest hugs!"
Last year, the Unbreakable actor's family announced that he was "stepping away" from Hollywood after being diagnosed with aphasia - a brain condition that impacts communication.
In a shared statement on Instagram, Bruce's family wrote at the time: "This is a really challenging time for our family and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion, 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," they added.
The retired actor has since been seen surrounded by the love of his blended family on social media.
Our hearts go out to Bruce Willis's family, friends, and fans at this time.
