Céline Dion's Battle with Stiff Person Syndrome Revealed in New Documentary

 Multiple award-winning singer Céline Dion has been living with symptoms of stiff person syndrome for 17 years, as revealed in the new documentary "I Am: Céline Dion."

The documentary details her life with the condition, with insights from her physician, Dr. Amanda Piquet, director of the autoimmune neurology program at the University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus.

In one poignant scene, Dion is seen undergoing a physical therapy session shortly after recording a new song, "Love Again." During the session, she performs standard exercises with her physical therapist, part of her treatment plan to improve her health and hopefully return to performing. However, she soon experiences severe cramping in one leg, leading to her entire body tensing up. Within minutes, she is unable to speak, move, or change her facial expression, wincing in pain and shedding tears as the episode continues.

Dr. Piquet, present during the crisis, asks Dion to squeeze his hand if she can hear him. Though motionless and curled up, Dion manages to indicate her awareness. She is then administered a benzodiazepine nasal spray, a depressant drug that helps relieve anxiety and reduce muscle spasms. Piquet explains that the continued spasms, anxiety, and panic quickly trigger a complete whole-body spasm, clarifying that it is not a seizure but a spasm during which patients are fully aware of what is happening.

The documentary's director, Irene Taylor, recalls the intense moment of filming this scene. Speaking to TODAY's Hoda Kotb, Taylor described it as an extraordinarily uncomfortable experience, both as a filmmaker and as a fellow human. She was uncertain whether to continue filming but was encouraged by Dion's strength and guidance to keep going.

Taylor reflects on the experience, noting the unimaginable endurance Dion's body exhibited and expressing her uncertainty about Dion's awareness and survival during the episode. The scene was so intense that it remains difficult for Taylor to discuss it.

"I Am: Céline Dion" offers an intimate look into Dion's battle with stiff person syndrome and her unwavering determination to continue sharing her music and story with the world.