Céline Dion surprises fans with Christmas video after stiff-person syndrome diagnosis

Céline Dion has celebrated Christmas with a special message to fans in her first address since announcing she's been suffering from ill health.

The My Heart Will Go On singer, 54, revealed at the beginning of December she will be postponing her world tour after being diagnosed with stiff-person syndrome.

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But determined to spread some festive cheer, the singer posted a video message on her social media pages, addressing her fans in both French and English.

The Canadian star said: "Merry Christmas everyone! Wishing you love, happiness, the best of health. See you soon. Bye Bye!"

The message has delighted fans who have feared for her wellbeing over the past month, taking the opportunity to wish her well as she learns to live with the incurable condition.

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"Merry Christmas Céline to you and your loved one," one wrote. "Remember that we love you so much. We are here always for you. I give you all my love.

"As you say: the best is yet to come. I send all my energy. I love you."

"We love you Celine! Merry Christmas and wishing you so much health and happiness!!" said another.

While a third wrote: "Hello Céline I wish you a very merry Christmas and heal very quickly to see you again next year this fall, and as well as the whole family."

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Stiff Person Syndrome is a rare autoimmune and neurological condition that progressively affects the muscles in your limbs and torso.

In a post on December 8, Dion explained the condition has meant she won't be able to perform on her planned 2023 world tour, due to begin in February.

Instead it's been pushed back to 2024.

"Unfortunately, the spasms affect every aspect of my daily life sometimes causing difficulties when I walk and not allowing me to use my vocal cords to sing the way I am used to," she said in the video, where she was seen visibly upset.

"It hurts me to tell you today that this means I won’t be ready to restart my tour in Europe in February."

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The mum-of-three said she had a “great team” of doctors and that her children were supporting her and giving her hope.

Dion has three sons with her late husband Rene Angelil, who died in 2016 after battling cancer.

WATCH: Dad diagnosed with same condition as Celine Dion tells how it's left him unable to live independently