Bruce Willis’ wife Emma helping to spread frontotemporal dementia awareness

Emma Heming Willis posted a video to her Instagram on Tuesday, using her platform to raise awareness of frontotemporal dementia.

Bruce Willis was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in February 2023. The 67-year-old actor retired from acting in 2022 after an aphasia diagnosis.

Emma posted the video to her account with the caption: “Just over here turning my five mins into 10. I’ve sat around quietly for too long and I’m so ready to be embraced by this solid and loving community my family and I find ourselves in while trying to lift them up in return. Let’s go. #ftdawareness #dementiaawareness #caregiversupport.”

The video to raise awareness frontotemporal dementia

In the video, the ‘Die Hard’ actor’s wife said that she wanted to turn her pain into something positive by helping people become more aware of the condition.

“I just saw something about me getting my five minutes, which is great,” the 44-year-old continued. “Which means that you’re listening. So I’m going to take my five minutes and I’m going to turn it into 10 because I’m always going to advocate for my husband.”

“And, while I’m at it, I’m going to raise awareness around FTD and for caregivers, who are unsung heroes out there,” Mrs. Willis continued. “And then, and then, I am going to turn my grief and my anger and my sadness and do something good around something that feels less than. So, watch this space, because I didn’t come to play.”

What is frontotemporal dementia?

Frontotemporal dementia affects the frontal brain lobes, resulting in a reduced ability to perform activities that require thinking and planning.

Symptoms can include heightened emotions, alterations in personality, obsessive behavior, difficulty communicating, speech difficulty, and motor impairment.