Months after making an unforgettable comeback performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics after being diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome, Céline Dion continues to spread a message of hope.
On Tuesday, October 22, the music icon, 56, received a standing ovation as she appeared on stage at the City of Hope 2024 Spirit of Life Gala to present the Spirit of Life Award, which honors leaders for their significant contributions to the community and profession , to Jay Marciano, President and CEO of AEG Presents.
The gala is part of the cancer research and treatment organization’s annual philanthropic campaign, which supports child, adolescent and youth survivorship programs.
Céline Dion appears on stage at the City of Hope 2024 Spirit of Life Gala.
Michael Der for City of Hope
A timeline of Céline Dion’s health journey amid her diagnosis of Stiff Person Syndrome
Dion, who has made only a handful of public appearances since being diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome in August 2022 and announcing her diagnosis that December, told those in attendance at the gala: “This is the first time I’ve been on stage since I’ve been up there tower and somehow I miss it.”
“This City of Hope has such a good name. It does so much more than important research that leads to new treatments. It provides care to people in the most difficult and challenging times of their lives. That’s so important,” she added.
“It provides the most precious ingredient, it gives hope. And I know how important that is,” Dion continued. “I know that in our beautiful lives, filled with family, joy and love, we can also be faced with enormous challenges, with great tests of faith and strength. For 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 all we can to help spread this great gift of hope.”
Céline Dion speaks on stage at the City of Hope 2024 Spirit of Life Gala.
Lester Cohen/Getty
Céline Dion hugs emotional son Rene-Charles before her Olympics performance in a new behind-the-scenes video
According to the Cleveland Clinic, stiff person syndrome is “a rare autoimmune neurological disorder that causes muscle stiffness in your trunk and abdomen.”
Dion appeared on stage three months after her triumphant return in July at the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics in Paris. The musician closed the multi-hour event with a performance of Édith Piaf’s song “Hymne A L’Amour” (Hymn of Love). The show took place live from the foot of the Eiffel Tower.
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Céline Dion performs at the Eiffel Tower during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics.
IOC via Getty
After her iconic performance, Dion shared a post on Instagram, reflecting on the once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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“I am honored to be performing tonight for the opening ceremony of Paris 2024 and so happy to be back in one of my favorite cities!” Dion wrote on Instagram. “Most of all, I am very happy to celebrate these incredible athletes, with all their stories of sacrifice and determination, pain and perseverance. You’ve all been so focused on your dream, and whether or not you take home a medal, I hope that being here means it came true for you!”
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Source: HIS Education