How Bruce Willis’ family supports him in his battle against dementia

This Thanksgiving was emotional for the Willis family. During the holiday weekend, Bruce Willis‘ daughter Scout posted a touching video to Instagram of her and her famous father — who struggles with frontotemporal dementia, an untreatable brain disorder that impairs speech and motor skills — sitting hand-in-hand at a table, as well as a photo of her cradling his palm against her face.

Bruce’s wife, Emmaalso posted one retrospective photo of the extended family, including their daughters Mabel And Evelynthe actor’s ex-wife, Demi Mooreand his older daughters, RumerExplorer and Tallulahwriting, “I am grateful and grateful to know this kind of love.”

It’s a bittersweet time for Bruce’s loved ones. The family announced in March 2022 that the That hard star, 68, struggled with aphasia, a language disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate. They then revealed last February that his condition had progressed and he had been diagnosed with FTD. According to the National Institutes of Health, the average life expectancy for people living with the disease is only six to eight years, but some medical sources estimate it as low as two years.

Since then, Emma, ​​45, Demi, 61, Rumer, 35, Scout, 32, and Tallulah, 29, have gathered around him 24/7 alongside Mabel, 11, and Evelyn, 9. “Bruce has good days and bad days , but in the past two months there have been many more bad days than good,” said a source. “This experience has brought the whole family even closer together. No one knows how much time Bruce has left, so they enjoy every moment they are with him.

According to a second source, the entire family actually lives under one roof. “They are all there all the time,” the source said. “Once Bruce was diagnosed, everyone came together to keep the family’s memory intact and be there as a constant reminder [that they] love him. [Everything] revolves around him.” Adds the first source: “Bruce has 24-hour care, but at least one family member is with him at all times.”

Rumer, who has always had a good relationship with her father, often takes eight-month-old daughter Louetta to spend time with her grandfather. “Rumer wants to make sure Louetta knows [Bruce],” says the second source. “She wants him to be actively involved in Louetta’s life. It is a very special bond.”

On Father’s Day she posted a photo of Bruce holding her daughter on Instagram, writing, “Dad, I’m so lucky to have you, and so is Lou.” Adds the second source: “Rumer and her sisters love their dad so much. They are very aware that every day could be their last.”

Bruce is doing as well as can be expected given the severity of his diagnosis. “He is deteriorating but he is in good hands and his family and close friends are supporting him. Moreover, the healthcare he receives is impeccable,” said the second source Pulp Fiction star “is still largely there and present when he is mentally and physically able.”

Since Bruce’s diagnosis, family members have been open about their problems. Over the summer, Emma posted a candid message on social media about the toll of caregiving, writing, “I know I feel like I’m living my best life. I have to make a conscious effort every day…. I do that for myself, I do that for our two children, and for Bruce, who wouldn’t want me to live any other way.” Speaking about the Today in September she admitted that “dementia is difficult. It is difficult for the diagnosed person; it’s hard for the family too,” adding that it was difficult to know if Bruce was aware of his condition.

Tallulah also offered fans an update on Bruce on the November 8 episode The Drew Barrymore Show, and share that they still enjoy listening to old rock ‘n’ roll together. “He’s the same, and I think I’ve learned in this regard that this is the best you can ask for,” she told Barrymore. “I see love when I’m with him, and it’s my dad, and he loves me, which is really special.”

Related: A look into Bruce Willis’ health journey after his aphasia diagnosis

An honest reflection. Emma Heming Willis has been open about the ups and downs of supporting her husband, Bruce Willis, on his health journey following his aphasia diagnosis. “This has been the summer of self-discovery: finding new hobbies, getting out of my comfort zone and staying active,” the model wrote via Instagram […]

These holidays are about making new memories together – and celebrating old ones. “The focus is on Bruce being around the people he loves and reminding him of happy holidays past,” said a third source. “Bruce still appreciates the holidays and loves having his whole family under one roof for music, meals and old home movies.” The first source says that Rumer, Scout and Tallulah have been showing photos from their father’s childhood and nostalgic items to brighten his mood, which “works every now and then.”

Moore is a big part of the festivities. The third source says the Ghost The star’s “famous organization skills” complement Emma’s calm demeanor. “Unfortunately, there is a ticking clock related to Bruce’s condition,” the source added, “but the entire family cherishes their time together, and Demi is the enabler of that.”

The first source says the mixed crew has a renewed sense of belonging, and is even considering starting a foundation in Bruce’s name: “They were always a family that wanted to give back together. But now they have new ideas about how they can help.”

The challenging moments are worth it. “Sometimes when Bruce is around his kids, it can be easy to forget that there’s something wrong with him,” the source says. “The smiles, the funny faces and the laughter come easily. He makes jokes in his “funny dad” way. There is a part of him that will always remain a big child in his heart.”

Adds the second source: “Everyone has come together for Bruce. They are grateful to have each other.”