The bond in Bruce Willis' brood continues to strengthen after hisdiagnosis of frontotemporal dementia.
A source tells PEOPLE that theSixth Senseactor’s family “is all closer than ever” amid news of his FTD diagnosis, which they announced on Thursday.
And Bruce’s wife of 13 years,Emma Heming Willis, “has the biggest support system” that “she couldn’t be more grateful” for, adds the source.
Part of that system includes all the women closest to Bruce: Emma, 44, his ex-wifeDemi Mooreand their children:Mabel, 10, andEvelyn, 8, whom he shares with Emma, plus his three daughters with Moore, 60:Rumer Willis, 34,Scout Willis, 31, andTallulah Willis, 29.
“She is trying to make as many positive memories for them as she can,” the source says of Emma’s efforts with Mabel and Evelyn. “She wants them to remember Bruce as an amazing, fun dad. She wants them to have the best memories of him.”
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In thefamily’s statementon Thursday, they wrote in part about Bruce, 67, “Since weannounced Bruce’s diagnosis of aphasiain spring 2022, Bruce’s condition has progressed and we now have a more specific diagnosis: frontotemporal dementia (known as FTD).”
“Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces. While this is painful, it is arelief to finally have a clear diagnosis,” they continued.
Bruce Willis and family.Demi Moore/instagram
“Your continued compassion, understanding, and respect will enable us to help Bruce live as full a life as possible,” they concluded, singing off, “Emma, Demi, Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel and Evelyn.”
Bruce’s blended family has been tight-knit over the years, and open about their support for the actor since revealing his original diagnosis and subsequent decision to retire from acting.
A source close to the family told PEOPLE in December that Bruce is “happy” about his impending new role. “He ishappy about becoming a grandpa,” the insider said. “He loves having a big family. They are all spendingChristmastogether.”
“Bruce is enjoying not working and having more family time. He likes being around his girls more,” added the source.
source: people.com
