Since she was diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome several years ago, Celine Dion has stayed mostly out of the spotlight — so it was a big surprise when she made a video appearance at the Eurovision Song Contest in Switzerland this week.
In a video shared to YouTube by the BBC, Dion, 57, who won Eurovision for Switzerland in 1988 with “Ne partez pas sans moi,” could be seen addressing the audience from a large video screen at the back of the stage.
“Dear Eurovision family and contestants. I’d love nothing more than to be with you in Basel right now,” the Grammy winner began.
“Switzerland will forever hold a special place in my heart,” she continued. “It’s a country that believed in me and gave me the chance to be part of something so extraordinary. Winning the Eurovision song contest for Switzerland in 1988 was a life-changing moment for me and I’m so thankful for everyone who supported me.”
Dion went on to say that it was “beautiful and emotional to see Switzerland winning and hosting this incredible event once again.”
“To the people of Switzerland, thank you for your love. This night is yours and I hope you feel as proud as I do,” she added.
Dion also included a special message in French, saying, “Music unites us, not only this evening, not only at the moment. Wonderful. It is our strength, our support and our support in the moments where we need it. I love you all, Europe and the rest of the world, of course. Kisses, I love you.”
As CNN reported, Dion announced she would be taking a career hiatus following her 2022 diagnosis with Stiff Person Syndrome, a rare neurological disorder.
Fans were thrilled last summer when she performed at the Olympic closing ceremony, which sparked rumors that she might appear in person at this year’s Eurovision contest; however, her video message was still a big hit with viewers.
“I just love her,” one person commented on the above YouTube video, with others calling the clip “amazing” and “elegant.”
