Bruce Willis's wife, Emma Heming Willis, has been named the recipient of the prestigious Susan Newhouse & Si Newhouse Award of Hope, presented by the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD). The honour recognises her tireless advocacy for frontotemporal degeneration (FTD), the condition Bruce Willis has been battling since his diagnosis was made public in February 2023.
The award will be presented on 3 April 2025 at the 9th Annual Hope Rising Benefit in New York City. In a statement, Emma said: 'I'm honoured to have been selected for this award on behalf of our family, and all families, navigating this unkind disease. We disclosed Bruce's diagnosis to raise global awareness about the urgent need for FTD diagnosis, treatments, and a cure. My goal, now and always, is to build hope and support for FTD caregivers and patients.'
Donald Newhouse, whose family has been affected by FTD, praised Emma's efforts: 'Emma has taken adversity and transformed it into a source of hope for families across the country. In doing so, she has drawn worldwide attention to FTD and the families that it affects. And she has done it all with grace, empathy, and compassion.'
Since Bruce's diagnosis, Emma has used social media, advocacy events, and meetings with lawmakers to push for increased funding and resources for FTD patients and caregivers. The Willis family, including Bruce's ex-wife Demi Moore and their five daughters, have been open about their journey. Demi Moore said on The Drew Barrymore Show: 'What I say to my kids is you meet them where they're at. There is such beauty and joy and loving and sweetness… you don't hold on to who they were or what you want them to be, but who they are in this moment.'
FTD is a lesser-known form of dementia that primarily affects behaviour, language, and movement, with no known cure. The family's transparency has encouraged others to speak out, fostering a supportive community for those affected by the disease.
