Building a New Approach to Self-Care
These days, Emma has developed a more intentional strategy for keeping herself well. She actively looks for gaps in her weekly schedule to carve out time for exercise and social connection, and gives herself regular “brain breaks” 10 to 20 minutes to step away and meditate.
Gardening, she says, has also become a meaningful outlet. “Gardening for me is also very meditative, I really love being outside and using my hands,” she shared.
She has also learned the importance of leaning on her community rather than trying to carry everything alone. “I think it’s so easy for caregivers to want to isolate,” she said, adding that she now encourages others to seek out support groups and caregiver resources.
“Caregivers can ask for help. They’re not a failure if they need the help. It’s OK to bring people in to support you and your loved one,” she continued.
Emma Heming Willis during her appearance on “TODAY” on September 25, 2023.
Crucially, Emma has found that the support of Bruce’s ex-wife, Demi Moore, and their three daughters Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah Willis has been invaluable.
“I’ve been able to lean on them, as well, to be able to help me provide the best care for Bruce,” she said. “It is so important to try and start that open communication. It works with our blended family because we have that communication, and we play into each other’s strengths. And we all have a hand in it.”
Emma has also channeled her experiences into a book, “The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path,” which she describes as the guide she wished someone had placed in her hands the day they received Bruce’s diagnosis.
She also launched The Emma & Bruce Willis Fund for Dementia Research and Caregiver Support in partnership with the Entertainment Industry Foundation, aiming to raise awareness of FTD and support both research and caregivers worldwide.
Rumer’s Emotional Tribute to Her Father
Meanwhile, Rumer Willis, 37 Bruce’s eldest daughter with Demi opened up about the evolving emotional reality of visiting her father during an appearance on celebrity stylist Maeve Reilly’s “The Inside Edit” podcast this month.
