In a heartfelt essay for Maria Shriver's Sunday Paper site, Emma Heming Willis, wife of actor Bruce Willis, shared her reflections on their family's journey since Bruce's frontotemporal dementia (FTD) diagnosis earlier this year. Emma highlighted six important lessons they have learned and became an advocate for FTD awareness and research.

FTD, the second-most common form of young-onset dementia, can affect individuals at any age. Emma emphasized the importance of community support, as the diagnosis enabled them to connect with others who understand their story immediately. It provided a medical context for the challenges they had been facing and allowed them to access specific information to better support Bruce.

Emma stressed the significance of raising awareness about FTD, as not all dementia is Alzheimer's and not all dementia impacts memory. FTD manifests through changes in behavior, personality, language, or movement. This knowledge prompted the Willis family to become dedicated to seeing an end to FTD, with Emma highlighting that disease-modifying treatments are currently in clinical trials and encouraging the community to take action.

The experience has also led Emma to find meaning in her journey, becoming more compassionate and understanding toward others. She has found power in becoming an advocate and wants her children to witness her efforts in fighting the stigma and isolation associated with FTD.

Emma acknowledged the resources available to her family, acknowledging the guilt she feels knowing that other care partners may not have the same opportunities. She emphasized the importance of giving back to the FTD community and expressed hope in the support received and the joy found in celebrating life's moments together.

Last week, Bruce's daughter Tallulah shared her perspective on her father's "really aggressive cognitive disease." While Bruce's mental state remains the same, Tallulah expressed the love she feels from him and the connection they share as she delved into his possessions from his career.

Emma concluded the essay by acknowledging that she still has much to learn about FTD and the evolving research surrounding the disease. Despite the daily grief she experiences, she expressed newfound strength and hope, attributing it to the community of support they have found.

Emma's candid essay sheds light on the challenges and experiences faced by those living with FTD and their loved ones. It serves as a reminder of the importance of FTD awareness, research, and support for affected individuals and their families.