Emma Hemming Willis, Bruce Willis’ wife, is struggling to care for herself while still caring for the star, who has dementia.
It was originally disclosed in March 2022 that Die Hard hero Bruce, 68, had been diagnosed with aphasia, a disorder that affects a person’s linguistic skills, causing him to retire from performing.
Bruce’s loved ones reported about a year later that his health had deteriorated and that he had been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, which impairs conduct and language.
His wife, Emma, 45, has now spoken up about what life is like for her as one of her husband’s carers, and the obstacles it entails.
Speaking in an Instagram video after going for a hike, the former model explained: ‘I know it looks like I’m out living my best life, I have to make a conscious effort every single day to live the best life that I can.
‘I do that for myself, I do that for our two children and Bruce who would not want me to live any other way so I don’t want it to be misconstrued like I’m good because I’m not.’
She reiterated: ‘I’m not good but I have to put my best foot forward for the sake of myself and my family because again, when we’re not looking after ourselves, we cannot look after anyone that we love.’
Emma, who has been married to the Hollywood star since 2009, added in the caption: ‘This is a care partner PSA My message is simple. When we are not looking after ourselves, we are no good to the people we love who we want to show up for and take care of.
‘I don’t have this down to a fine-science either, but I try. It’s an affirmation I use daily so it’s kept in the forefront of my mind. Your pictures, words of support and love for me and my family were felt. Honestly, thank you, it helps.’
‘I ask that you’ll consider to keep looking for that one beautiful thing or moment in your day And I hope you can take me seriously in my dopey hat,’ she concluded.
Emma received kind messages of support from her followers, with one commenting: ‘I admire you so very much. When you said “Bruce wouldn’t want it any other way,” I physically shouted out YES! Thank you for your openness and sharing YOU.’
Another added: ‘Caregivers—one of the very hardest jobs on the planet that not many can comprehend unless living it. Take good care of you, it’s so very important.’
Bruce’s daughter Tallulah, 29, recently detailed how she assumed her father had ‘lost interest’ in her when she spotted his ‘unresponsiveness’ and didn’t realise he was ill.
Bruce is one of Hollywood’s most recognised performers, with a career that includes box office hits, most notably his iconic role as John McClane in the Die Hard trilogy. His diverse filmography includes Armageddon, Pulp Fiction, The Sixth Sense, and Look Who’s Talking, among many more.