‘I’m working hard on my recovery,’ Celine Dion cancels 2023/2024 world tour amid health challenges

Ace Canadian singer Celine Dion, has canceled all her upcoming 2023 and 2024 world tour as she continues to battle with neurological disorder.

NewsClick Nigeria reports that in December, the songstress revealed that she was diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS).

SPS is a rare neurological disorder with features of an autoimmune disease that causes one’s muscles to tense uncontrollably.

It comprises fluctuating muscle rigidity in the trunk and limbs and a heightened sensitivity to stimuli such as noise, touch, and emotional distress.

While there is no cure for SPS, there are treatments — including anti-anxiety medicines and muscle relaxants — that can slow down its progression.

On Friday, Celine disclosed in a statement that she is unable to successfully prepare for and perform the remainder of the tour.

The ‘My Heart Will Go On’ crooner said she is heartbroken by the sudden cancellation.

Celine added that her medical team has continued to “evaluate and treat the condition”.

“With a sense of tremendous disappointment, Celine Dion’s Courage World Tour today announced the cancellation of all remaining dates currently on sale for 2023 and 2024. As the world has emerged from the pandemic, Celine has continued to be treated for a diagnosed medical condition that prevents her from performing,” the statement reads in part.

“Celine is working hard on her recovery, but at this time is unable to successfully prepare for and perform the remainder of the tour, which was scheduled to run from August 26, 2023 in Amsterdam through October 4, 2023 in Helsinki; then continuing from March 6, 2024 in Prague through April 22, 2024 in London. We do have every hope that someday soon, Celine will be able to come to all of these cities in Europe to perform for her amazing fans, but that time simply is not now.

“I’m so sorry to disappoint all of you once again. I’m working really hard to build back my strength, but touring can be very difficult even when you’re 100%. It’s not fair to you to keep postponing the shows, and even though it breaks my heart, it’s best that we cancel everything now until I’m really ready to be back on stage again, I won’t you all to know, I’m not giving up… and I can’t wait to see you again!”

Celine also announced a refund for the purchased tickets.