World Frontotemporal Dementia Awareness Week is recognized from September 28 to October 4, and Bruce Willis' wife Emma Heming Willis paid tribute to him in a major way.
The couple has been married since 2009, and Emma has consistently been there for Bruce since he was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia at the age of 68 in February 2023.
© InstagramThe disorder occurs due to a person losing their brain's frontal and temporal nerve cells over time, which negatively affects their behavior, personality and communication.
Emma took to social media to celebrate Bruce's journey, expressing: "I can't go through World FTD Awareness Week without talking about Bruce. He is the driving force behind my advocacy. He has opened so many doors for me in this work, and I will continue to walk through them."
Emma shared how the star's approach to the diagnosis has provided a safety net for others, adding: "I will not let his diagnosis be in vain. I know how proud he would be to know that he is helping families living with FTD, other forms of dementia and their care partners be seen and heard."
She gushed about the positive impact Bruce continues to bring to others, despite his difficult everyday struggles, as Emma lovingly concluded: "In this next chapter of his life, Bruce continues to build on his legacy. He is, and always will be, a [expletive] legend. And I am so proud to be his wife."
© Getty ImagesHis family members and fans were moved by the heartwarming note and flocked to the comments to show the family immense support.
His daughter Scout Willis commented: "I'm so proud of you. I love you so much Emma."
One person wrote: "The GOAT and the legend of all times. Sending so much love to my all time favorite act
© Getty ImagesA second fan added: "Such an icon!!! Everyone loves Bruce Willis!" A third follower continued: "Legend!!!" One fan wrote: "You are both incredible humans. x."
Another follower got candid about their own family member's challenges with the same diagnosis, and they wrote: "I lost my husband in 2020 to FTD, along with ALS. What you are doing is amazing. You are [making] us all proud. Xx"
© Getty ImagesIn a previous video on social media, Emma brought more awareness to the diagnosis by explaining how FTD differs from dementia.
She revealed: "FTD doesn't always begin with memory loss. That's one of the ways it differs from Alzheimer's disease. FTD affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, and it can look different from person to person."
Emma continued: "It could begin with changes in behavior, personality and judgment. For others, it may affect language, communication or movement."
