Emma Heming shared a touching tribute as she celebrated 18 years with Bruce Willis, reflecting on their relationship and life as the actor continues his dementia battle
Bruce Willis and his wife Emma Heming have marked a major relationship milestone, celebrating 18 years since they first became a couple with a heartfelt look back at their early romance.
Emma, 46, shared a touching tribute on Instagram on December 30, posting a nostalgic black-and-white photograph from the early days of their relationship. In the intimate snap, Hollywood actor Bruce leans in to kiss Emma gently on the top of her head as they sit close together, while she looks effortlessly chic in a dark outfit with her hair styled in loose waves.
Reflecting on the moment, Emma wrote: “18 years ago, he became my boyfriend. With one kiss on the top of my head, time stood still. I’m so lucky to know this kind of love.”
The couple went on to marry in December 2009 and are parents to two daughters, Mabel, 13, and Evelyn, 11. Bruce also shares three daughters, Rumer, 37, Scout, 34, and Tallulah, 31, with his former wife Demi Moore. Despite their split in 2000, the blended family has remained close, with Demi and the older girls continuing to share a strong bond with Emma and Bruce’s younger children.
Emma’s anniversary post comes during a challenging period for the family, following Bruce’s ongoing health struggles. The Hollywood star was diagnosed with aphasia in 2022, before later receiving a diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in 2023, which is a rare and progressive condition.
Frontotemporal degeneration typically affects people between the ages of 40 and 65 and is the most common form of dementia in those under 60. There is currently no cure.
According to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration, “FTD occurs when abnormal proteins accumulate and clump together in brain cells called neurons,” with experts noting that some cases can be hereditary.
Symptoms often develop gradually and may include personality changes, emotional withdrawal, impaired judgement, reduced speech and a loss of energy.
Earlier this year, Emma spoke candidly about stepping into the role of Bruce’s primary caregiver. Recalling the moment they left the doctor’s office after his diagnosis, she said: “I had no hope, no road map, no guidance. Caregivers are so unseen. I had to dig so deep to find the support.”
She also explained the family’s difficult decision for Bruce to live separately to ensure his safety and wellbeing. “It was a hard decision for us but that was the safest and best decision, not just for Bruce but also for our two young girls,” Emma shared, adding: “It’s really not up for a debate.”
Reaffirming her commitment to his care, she said: “Now I know that Bruce has the best care, 100 percent of the time. His needs are met 100 percent of the time.”
Emma has continued to advocate for caregivers, admitting: “Caregivers are so judged,” while stressing the importance of doing what is right for family and loved ones above all else.
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