Emma Heming Speaks Out After Husband Bruce Willis Was Harassed By Paparazzi While Out for Coffee
The model is seeking advice for helping him navigate the world safely after the incident.
Emma Heming has already made it more than clear that she'll do whatever it takes to care for husband Bruce Willis following his diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia, but that doesn't mean it's easy.
Willis was recently captured on camera while he was out for a cup of coffee with friends, making headlines as it was his first public appearance since his updated diagnosis was revealed.
Fans were thrilled to see the actor out and about and seemingly well, but the spread of a video and varying screenshots from it has put his family, understandably, on edge, as the video showed the visibly confused Willis being harassed by paparazzi while his friends did their best to shield him.
Heming took to Instagram today, March 4, to address how stressful it can be trying to ensure that loved ones with dementia stay safe, speaking directly to her followers in a brief video uploaded to her feed.
She appeared to be sitting in a pair of red, button-up pajamas in her kitchen, admitting that she'd just woken up before launching into her message.
"In service of raising awareness around dementia, because that is my goal, you know, if you are someone that is looking after someone with dementia you know how difficult and stressful it can be to get someone out into the world and just to navigate them safely," she said.
"Even just to get a cup of coffee. I’m just seeing headlines, and there’s a video of my husband out getting some coffee with some friends that did a standup job with protecting him, and um…” She trailed off, appearing to be at a loss for further words and smiling apologetically before the camera cut off, but she made her intention clear in the caption.
"To other caregivers or dementia care specialist[s] navigating this world…. Any tips or advice on how to get your loved ones out in the world safely?" she asked.
"Please share below ??"
Several commenters were quick to share what they've learned caring for their own family members.
"Routines are great. Every morning can be your morning walk, so it becomes a task and part of routine," one comment read in part.
"I would share that routine and similarities are crucial," another agreed. "New things and any hustle or outing can confuse and scare them. My husband was shaken just by a ride in a van to the neurologist." The commenter also pointed out that FTD can present differently in every person, being more of a degeneration than a true dementia. "Prayers for Bruce as you protect and provide him amazing care. Good bless you Emma ! ?????? ," they wrapped up.
"My mom lived with dementia for seven years until we lost her a few years ago this week. Today would’ve been her 82nd birthday. I can tell you that no two cases of dementia are the same. I know dozens of people whose lives have been affected by a family member with dementia, and all stories are different. Lead with love and lots of patience. Wishing Bruce comfort and strength as he continues to navigate this journey.??," wrote another.
One commenter had a good piece of advice to direct towards the general public, noting, "One thing we can all do as fans and supporters is not click on those headlines so you don’t give the media the excuse that people want to know."
Many also thanked the model for her vulnerability and willingness to shed light on the difficulties that come with caring for a loved one with dementia.
"Absolutely. @emmahemingwillis you are completely right. There is so much more work to do in raising awareness and understanding of dementia. I’m honored to be a part of this conversation and I’m so dedicated to seeing it through! You are making a huge difference in your courage to share. Thank you!??," one comment read.
"Thank you for talking about this so publicly. I know this can’t be easy at all and as someone whose mom has a diagnosis of FTD thank you for raising awareness and speaking out," said another.
There is no treatment or cure for frontotemporal dementia, but Willis' family is hoping to change that. If you'd like to contribute to the disease's research, you can do so through AFTD, the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration.
