Bruce Willis’ family to donate his brain for FTD research, Emma Heming Willis says holidays with him are 'joyous'

Bruce Willis, FTD and family decision

Emma Heming Willis has spoken about how the family is adapting their life and celebrations while supporting Bruce Willis after his diagnosis with frontotemporal dementia (FTD). She shared that the actor’s brain will be donated to scientific research after his death so specialists can better study FTD and its impact on the brain.

Frontotemporal dementia diagnosis

Bruce Willis first stepped away from acting after developing aphasia, and his condition was later identified as frontotemporal dementia, a neurodegenerative disease that affects language, behavior and personality. The illness gradually reduces his ability to communicate and live independently, eventually requiring constant care and support.

Holiday traditions and daily life

Emma explained that the family is gently reshaping holiday traditions so Bruce can remain involved in ways that match his current abilities. The focus is on presence and shared moments rather than demanding activities, which allows their daughters to experience the holidays with their father in a positive, manageable way.

“Joyous” time together

In her comments, Emma described holidays with Bruce as “joyous,” emphasizing that meaningful connection is still possible even as routines change. She highlighted that love and attention to small rituals help the whole family adjust to FTD while preserving a sense of warmth and celebration.

Brain donation for FTD research

The family has decided that Bruce’s brain will be donated to medical researchers after his death so they can examine structural changes, abnormal proteins and other markers associated with FTD. Such donations are considered important because FTD currently has no cure and limited treatment options, and detailed postmortem studies can advance understanding of the disease.

A legacy beyond his career

Emma has framed this decision as a final act of service, turning a painful situation into a chance to help future patients and families. For the Willis family, including his wife, ex‑wife and daughters, contributing to science is a way to give lasting meaning to Bruce’s struggle with dementia.

Family perspective on FTD

Emma has spoken frankly about the emotional and practical challenges of FTD, especially for their young daughters, Mabel and Evelyn. She notes that the family lives with uncertainty but focuses on adapting routines and expectations to meet Bruce’s changing needs with patience and compassion.

Raising awareness

By sharing their experience publicly, the family hopes to draw attention to frontotemporal dementia, which remains less recognized than other dementias despite being similarly devastating. Increased visibility can encourage more research, earlier diagnosis and better support for affected families.

Emma Heming Willis has described the decision to donate Bruce’s brain as emotionally difficult, but important for advancing FTD research and helping others facing the same diagnosis.

Author’s summary

Emma Heming Willis describes a tender balance of joy and grief as Bruce Willis’s family reshapes holidays, confronts FTD’s progression and turns his eventual brain donation into a lasting gift to future patients.

Moneycontrol — 2025-11-28