Rumer Willis shared an emotional Bruce Willis health update about missing the father she once knew. She explained how his frontotemporal dementia forced her to balance grief with living presently.
The actress said some days felt particularly difficult as Bruce Willis’ dementia progressed. Still, Rumer focused on appreciating the version of her dad who remained with her.
Rumer Willis says she misses a different version of Bruce Willis amid his frontotemporal dementia battle
Rumer addressed her father’s condition in a video while discussing her partnership with Function. The health membership offered advanced testing, imaging, and specialized assessments.
“I really miss my dad. I miss a different version of who he was,” Rumer said. “There are some days that are just so hard.”
She explained that she tried to remain present with Bruce as he existed now. “The truth is, to be strong is learning to deal with both things at the same time.”
Bruce stepped away from acting in early 2022 after receiving an aphasia diagnosis. His family later shared his frontotemporal dementia diagnosis in February 2023. The diagnosis prompted Rumer to examine her own health and family history. She took an APOE genetic test through Function to understand her Alzheimer’s-related genetic risk.
Rumer said her results showed a three-four combination, which she considered relatively average. She added that the result indicated some risk, though nothing extreme.
“Companies like Function empower you to put the information in your hands,” she said.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Rumer admitted that seeking answers could feel frightening. Her family’s medical history included dementia, breast cancer, and other health concerns.
“It’s terrifying to get answers sometimes,” she told the publication. However, she believed knowledge gave people greater control over their choices.
“But I think when you have information, it’s power,” Rumer continued. She compared that idea to something “Spider-Man” might say.
Rumer explained that knowing potential risks could encourage proactive health choices. She mentioned reducing inflammation and improving heart health as possible areas of focus. The actress also recently enjoyed a rare Bruce Willis family moment. Her father attended the wedding of one of his daughters.
For Rumer, Bruce Willis’ dementia had clearly changed their relationship. Yet her message centered on holding space for grief and cherishing the present.
Originally reported by Vanshika Vasundhare Singh on Reality Tea
