Celine Dion's fight against her incurable stiff person syndrome remains at the forefront, according to her sister Claudette Dion.
In an interview with HELLO! Canada, the 74-year-old described her 55-year-old sister as "strong" and shared that there is not much the family can do to help or reduce her pain. Nonetheless, Claudette said Celine is doing all she can to "alleviate her pain."
She told the outlet, "She's doing everything to recover. She's a strong woman."
"It's an illness we know so little about," Claudette said.
"There are spasms - they're impossible to control. Do you know who people often jump up in the night because of a cramp in the leg or the calf? It's a bit like that, but in all muscles."
She sighed, saying, "We are at a loss of what we can do to help her - all we can do is hope and pray that a cure will be found soon for this cruel condition."
The rare and progressive neurological disorder known as stiff person syndrome can have a massive impact on those it affects, of which estimates suggest roughly one in a million people. This condition causes stiffness in the torso, arms, and legs, as the National Institutes of Health reported.
Their other sister Linda and her spouse have moved to Las Vegas to assist Celine, who lives in her residence. Claudette commented that it is an excellent source of comfort for everyone near her.
READ ALSO: Celine Dion Stiff Person Syndrome Update: Singer's Sister Shares Latest Heartbreaking Condition
In December 2022, the "My Heart Will Go On" hitmaker became aware of her health condition and had to cancel the Courage World Tour.
Despite this, Claudette declared to Le Journal de Montreal that "We can't find any medicine that works, but having hope is important."
The Grammy winner has collaborated with some of the top medical professionals in the field yet does not have much reason for optimism.
Claudette spoke about why she felt canceling the tour was essential for her sister's health. She remarked, "Listening when your heart and body tell you something is essential. She always does her best and gives it her all, but at one point, enough is enough! Taking a break will help put her on the path to recovery."
It was with great regret that Celine Dion announced last May that she had to cancel over 40 of her tour dates due to a debilitating disorder. Her disappointment was evident as she addressed the public.
She said in an Instagram post, "I'm so sorry to disappoint all of you once again. I'm working hard to build back my strength, but touring can be very difficult even when you're 100%."
"I want you all to know I'm not giving up... and I can't wait to see you again."
READ MORE: Celine Dion Moving Back To Canada To Be Near Family Amid Worsening Health Diagnosis
