LOS ANGELES, CA. (THECOUNT) — Bruce Willis is “stepping away” from acting after being diagnosed with aphasia, the loss of ability to understand or express speech caused by brain damage.

The 67-year-old actor’s family shared the news on Instagram Wednesday, writing alongside a photo of Bruce on Instagram, “To Bruce’s amazing supporters, as a family we wanted to share that our beloved Bruce has been experiencing some health issues and has recently been diagnosed with aphasia, which is impacting his cognitive abilities,” reports People.

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“As a result of this and with much consideration Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him,” the caption added.

The family went on to say that it “is a really challenging time for our family and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion and support.”

“We are moving through this as a strong family unit, and wanted to bring his fans in because we know how much he means to you, as you do to him. As Bruce always says, ‘Live it up’ and together we plan to do just that,” they concluded, signing the note from the actor’s daughters Rumer Willis, Scout Willis, Tallulah Willis, Mabel Willis and Evelyn Willis, plus Bruce’s wife Emma Heming Willis and his ex-wife Demi Moore.

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