Bruce Willis Thanks Los Angeles First Responders In First Public Appearance Since Dementia Diagnosis

If that doesn't warm your heart, I don't know what will. Back in 2022, the legendary Bruce Willis announced he was stepping away from acting after being diagnosed with aphasia, a condition often caused by head trauma or a stroke that causes problems with speaking or comprehending speech due to brain damage. And in 2023, his family revealed the heartbreaking news that the actor had been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia: “While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis. FTD is a cruel disease that many of us have never heard of and can strike anyone. For people under 60, FTD is the most common form of dementia, and because getting the diagnosis can take years, FTD is likely much more prevalent than we know.” Today there are no treatments for the disease, a reality that we hope can change in the years ahead. As Bruce’s condition advances, we hope that any media attention can be focused on shining a light on this disease that needs far more awareness and research. Bruce has always found joy in life — and has helped everyone he knows to do the same. It has meant the world to see that sense of care echoed back to him and to all of us. We have been so moved by the love you have all shared for our dear husband, father, and friend during this difficult time. Your continued compassion, understanding, and respect will enable us to help Bruce live as full a life as possible.” At the time, his family said that the disease had progressed and caused problems with his speech, along with other issues, with his wife Emma Heming saying that it was "hard to know" whether Willis was even aware of his condition. The Die Hard actor's ex-wife Demi Moore, with whom he shares three daughters, provided an update on his condition last year, saying that Willis was "in a very stable place," while Heming has shared photos and videos of Willis with the three children that they have together. Heming has also become an outspoken advocate for frontotemporal dementia awareness, and often shares updates on the work being done to diagnose, treat, and ultimately cure the heartbreaking disease. Since his diagnosis, Willis has remained out of the public eye - for obvious reasons. But earlier this week, Heming shared a video of the legendary actor making his first public appearance in years. In the video posted to her Instagram, Willis can be seen shaking hands and greeting Los Angeles police, who have no doubt had a lot on their own plates lately with the devastating wildfires across the region. Heming said that greeting first responders was always something that meant a lot to Bruce, and that was something that hasn't changed since his diagnosis: "Spotting a first responder, Bruce never missed a chance to show his gratitude with a heartfelt handshake and a “thank you for your service.” Yesterday was no different." https://www.instagram.com/reel/DE5Iup8Pylc/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== It's nice to see Bruce still able to get out and about, and doing well enough mentally to still want to thank first responders for their hard work. I watched my grandfather suffer from dementia, and it's heartbreaking to watch the disease take your loved one from you, but it really makes you cherish those moments when you have them back, even for just a little while.