What if … ?
What if you could not do the one thing in life that made you feel most alive and gave your life meaning? What if circumstances beyond your direct control took that thing from you? For Celine Dion giving her all to packed concert halls was that thing. And in her mid-fifties, a rare disease put that “thing’ in jeopardy.
I Am Celine Dion
(December 2023)
In December 2023, Celine Dion released a documentary film that portrays her life history and her struggle with “Stiff Person Syndrom” (SPF) – a condition that has kept her from performing in recent years. and is experienced by only 1 in 1,000,000 people.
The documentary traces her life from childhood in a large Canadian family, to becoming a performer and having an enduring relationship with her manager/husband (now deceased). They lived in Las Vegas and raised three children.
The film shows the joy and meaning that her vocal performances have given to her life, and how she craves and depends on the energetic response of her audiences. The thought of not being able to perform for large audiences is devastating to her.
The last 15 minutes of the film shows Celine going through an episode of severe spasms as she is being stretched by her personal trainer. It is rare to see a celebrity agree to show themself in such a vulnerable state.
You can view the documentary using the links below.
I Am Celine Dion
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Celine Dion Performs at the Opening of the Olympics in Paris (July 2024)
Flash forward 7 months. Celine Dion stands on the first level of the Eiffel Tower and delivers a song by the French singer Edit Pelof. Celine is magnificent and in full voice.
How is this possible given the final scenes of the documentary?. Clearly, her devotion and dedication to rehabilitation succeeded
Celine Dion Sings in Paris
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Editor’s Note (Steve Unger)
Besides the graphic video of one of Celine’s severe spasm attacks what struck me most was she had constructed a life as a world-renowned superstar which required her to continue performing to give her life meaning. As shown in the film, Celine was never satisfied with “good enough” she always strove for her version of vocal perfection.
Celine’s dependence on her need for performing and energy exchange with her audiences limits her options. Without it what would she do? Julie Andrews lost her voice but has continued on. Many older people lose their professional identity and find new ways to express and involve themselves. But for Celine, there is only one way. To return to the stage and perform. with perfection.
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