Céline Dion Talks About the Importance of 'Hope' in First On-Stage Appearance Since Paris Olympics
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The singer has made few public a appearances since being diagnosed with stiff-person syndrome diagnosis in August 2022 and going public with the news that December
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Céline Dion speaks onstage at the City of Hope's 2024 Spirit of Life GalaMonths after giving an unforgettable comeback performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics following her diagnosis of stiff-person syndrome, Céline Dion continues to spread a message of hope.
On Tuesday, Oct. 22, the music icon, 56, received a standing ovation as she appeared on stage at the City of Hope's 2024 Spirit of Life Gala to present the Spirit of Life Award, which honors leaders for their notable contributions to their community and profession, to Jay Marciano, Chairman and CEO of AEG Presents.
The gala is part of the cancer research and treatment organization's annual philanthropic campaign, which benefits childhood, adolescent, and young adult survivorship programs.
Michael Der for City of Hope
Céline Dion appears onstage at the City of Hope's 2024 Spirit of Life GalaRelated: A Timeline of Céline Dion's Health Journey amid Her Stiff-Person Syndrome Diagnosis
Dion, who has only made a few public appearances since being diagnosed with stiff-person syndrome diagnosis in August 2022 and making the diagnosis public that December, told attendees at the gala "This is the first time I've been on a stage since I was up on that tower. And I kind of miss it."
"This City of Hope is so well-named. It does so much more than the important research leading to new treatments. It provides care to people in their greatest time of need at the most difficult and challenging moment of their lives. That is so important," she added.
"It provides the most precious ingredient, it provides hope. And I know how important that is," continued Dion. "I know that in our wonderful lives, filled with family and joy and love, we can also be presented with tremendous challenges, with great tests about faith and strength. To many of us who experience this at some point, what a joy it is to come together with everyone in this room tonight to do everything in our power to help spread this great gift of hope."
Lester Cohen/Getty
Céline Dion speaks onstage at the City of Hope's 2024 Spirit of Life GalaAccording to the Cleveland Clinic, stiff-person syndrome is "a rare autoimmune neurological disorder that causes muscle stiffness in your trunk and abdomen."
Dion appeared on stage three months after she made a triumphant return in July for the Summer Olympics Opening Ceremony in Paris. The musician closed out the hours-long event with a rendition of Édith Piaf's song "Hymne A L'Amour" (Hymn to Love). The performance took place live from the base of the Eiffel Tower.
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IOC via Getty
Céline Dion performing on the Eiffel Tower during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris OlympicsFollowing her iconic performance, Dion shared an Instagram post, reflecting on the once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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"I'm honored to have performed tonight, for the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony, and so full of joy to be back in one of my very favorite cities!" Dion wrote on Instagram. "Most of all, I'm so happy to be celebrating these amazing athletes, with all their stories of sacrifice and determination, pain and perseverance. All of you have been so focused on your dream, and whether or not you take home a medal, I hope that being here means that it has come true for you!"
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