- Céline Dion stirs with speech
- Performance at City of Hope's Spirit of Life Gala
- She talks about hope
Months after her unforgettable return to the Olympic Games 2024 in Paris, Céline Dion gave another sign of hope. On October 22, 2024, the music icon performed at the City of Hope's Spirit of Life Gala and presented the Spirit of Life Award to Jay Marciano, Chairman and CEO of AEG Presents. This gala is part of the organization's annual philanthropic campaign that supports programs for childhood and adolescent cancer survivors.
Céline Dion's emotional words about hope
Céline Dion, who has been diagnosed with stiff person syndrome and rarely appeared in public since August 2022, told those present: "This is the first time I've been on a stage since I was up on that tower. And I kind of miss it."
She praised the work of the City of Hope: "This City of Hope is so well-named. It does so much more than the important research leading to new treatments. It provides care to people in their greatest time of need at the most difficult and challenging moment of their lives. That is so important," she added.
"It provides the most precious ingredient, it provides hope. And I know how important that is," continued Dion. "I know that in our wonderful lives, filled with family and joy and love, we can also be presented with tremendous challenges, with great tests about faith and strength. To many of us who experience this at some point, what a joy it is to come together with everyone in this room tonight to do everything in our power to help spread this great gift of hope."
Céline Dion: Moving comeback at the Olympic Games
Three months earlier, Céline Dion had celebrated a triumphant comeback at the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics in Paris. Her performance of the Édith Piaf classic "Hymne A L'Amour" at the foot of the Eiffel Tower was a highlight of the event.
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Céline Dion disease: What is stiff person syndrome?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, Stiff Person Syndrome is a rare neurological autoimmune disease, "a rare autoimmune neurological disorder that causes muscle stiffness in your trunk and abdomen." Despite this challenge, Céline Dion remains a symbol of hope and inspiration.
