Fighting back the tears, Celine Dion shared in a video to fans she has been diagnosed with an incurable neurological disorder. Speaking on Instagram, the 54-year-old Canadian native said, “As you know, I’ve always been an open book. And I wasn’t ready to say anything before – but I’m ready now. I’ve been dealing with problems with my health for a long time. And it’s been really difficult for me to face these challenges and talk about everything that I’ve been going through.”

Dion then revealed she had been diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS), which she explained “affects something like one in a million people.” The Cleveland Clinic defines SPS as “a rare autoimmune movement disorder that affects the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). People with this condition first experience a stiffening of their trunk muscles followed, over time, by the development of stiffness and rigidity in the legs and other muscles in the body.”

Dion detailed the specific problems she has been having – including mobility issues. “While we’re still learning about this rare condition, we now know this is what has been causing all of the spasms I’ve been having. Unfortunately, these spasms affect every aspect of my daily life, sometimes causing difficulties when I walk and not allowing me to use my vocal cords to sing the way I’m used to.”

The mother of three shared one pre-taped video in English and one in French, explaining to fans that she will be focusing on her health and will therefore have to postpone the European leg of her tour. “It hurts me to tell you today that this means I won’t be ready to restart my tour in Europe in February. I have a great team of doctors working alongside me to help get better and my precious children, who are supporting me and giving me hope.”

In January, the “My Heart Will Go On” singer canceled the remaining North American shows from her “Courage World Tour,” citing a “recovery from recent health issues” as her reasoning. “I’m working hard with my sports medicine therapist every day to build back my strength and my ability to perform again. But I have to admit it’s been a struggle. All I know is singing. It’s what I’ve done all my life. And it’s what I love to do the most,” she admitted.

The five-time Grammy Award winner was most emotional when speaking directly to her army of fans. “I miss you so much. I miss seeing all of you – being on the stage, performing for you. I always give 100 percent when I do my shows. But my condition is not allowing me to give you that right now. For me to reach you again, I have no choice but to concentrate on my health at this moment. And I have hope that I’m on the road to recovery. This is my focus. And I’m doing everything that I can to recuperate.”

Dion ended the video by saying, “I want to thank you so much for your encouraging wishes of love and support on my social media. This means a lot to me. Take care of yourselves – be well. I love you guys so much. And I really hope I can see you again, really soon. Thank you.” Let’s keep Celine Dion in our prayers during this challenging time.