Inspired by her father Bruce Willis’s courageous journey with frontotemporal dementia, Tallulah Willis, the youngest daughter of Demi Moore and Bruce, has disclosed a diagnosis of her own.
The 30-year-old recently shared a touching childhood photo where her dad is tenderly carrying her on the red carpet, revealing that as an adult, she too has had a significant revelation regarding her health.
In an Instagram post, Tallulah Willis initiated an important conversation about autism by revisiting a cherished memory.
Being the youngest of Bruce Willis, 69, and Demi Moore, 61, Tallulah shared a clip from her childhood days where she is endearingly playing with her father’s head as he carries her while engaging with the media at a film premiere.
Prompting her 408,000 followers to share their thoughts, Tallulah’s post from March 15th reads, “tell me your autistic without telling me your autistic [sic].”
Many admirers found the clip adorable, while some, recognizing the habits she displayed, related them to her autism symptoms and praised her father’s affectionate response.
One sentiment conveyed by a fan stated, “The way he lovingly embraced you without faltering is beautiful. Your dad is unique, honey, just like you.” Another remarked, “You know, running your fingers over a shaved head is as calming as a little Japanese sand garden.”
Another fan added, “His gentle care for you is truly heartwarming…I’m so glad you have these memories captured.”
Recent Diagnosis
Among the reactions, a popular comment came from a psychologist known for their work with neurodivergent individuals.
The professional inquired, “If you’re comfortable, were you diagnosed during your childhood?” going by the user mfizzle, adding, “Would love to hear more about your journey if you choose to share. Your courage inspires many, and this video is very sweet. Best wishes!”
To which Tallulah responded, “This marks the first time I’m speaking publicly about my diagnosis. Found out this summer, it has profoundly impacted my life.”
Understanding Stimming
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states, “Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability characterized by differences in the brain. People with ASD may experience challenges in social communication and interaction and exhibit restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests.”
Within the same Instagram discourse, Scout LaRue Willis, 32, further explained the significance of the video concerning her younger sister’s condition.
Scout LaRue noted, “She’s engaging in stimming,” referring to repetitive actions autistic individuals may perform to manage sensory input.
Tallulah humorously added, “The ear curl, right? I wish the audio was more robust,” mentioning the scene where she gently plays with her dad’s ear, who warmly softens his gaze upon her.
Supporting Her Father
Tallulah, alongside Scout LaRue and Rumer Willis, 35, are showering unyielding love and support on their father as he continues his battle with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
In 2023, Bruce Willis, known for his role in “Die Hard,” celebrated his 69th birthday on March 19. Around this time, he was diagnosed with FTD, a progressive condition that primarily hampers communication and behavior rather than memory. Aphasia, one of the actor’s early symptoms, disrupts individuals’ ability to communicate, write, or understand language.
Since the onset of his health challenges, Willis’s family has been admirably vocal in their support of the beloved star, who also shares two more daughters with his current wife, Emma Heming Willis.
Emma affectionately wrote, “Just like you, we adore him so much. You might not know, but wrapped in his arms feels like the safest place in the world. He’s incredibly kind and has so much love to give. That’s what I get to witness every day—his pure and good-hearted nature.”
As of now, Tallulah has not provided further details regarding her diagnosis.
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