Wendy Williams Diagnosed with Dementia and Aphasia

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Wendy Williams Diagnosed with Dementia and Aphasia

Wendy Williams reveals she’s been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia. The former talk show host released a statement thanking her fans for their ‘overwhelming’ support following the news. 

Williams Thanks Her Fans for Support

“I want to say I have immense gratitude for the love and kind words I have received after sharing my diagnosis of Aphasia and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD),” she said. “Let me say, wow! Your response has been overwhelming. The messages shared with me have touched me, reminding me of the power of unity and the need for compassion.”

“I hope that others with FTD may benefit from my story. I want to also thank the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration for their kind words of support and their extraordinary efforts to raise awareness of FTD,” Williams added. “I continue to need personal space and peace to thrive. Please just know that your positivity and encouragement are deeply appreciated.”

Representatives for Williams revealed the diagnosis last week, although the former talk show host received her diagnosis last year. “Wendy is still able to do many things for herself,” her team said in a statement. “Most importantly she maintains her trademark sense of humor and is receiving the care she requires to make sure she is protected and that her needs are addressed. She is appreciative of the many kind thoughts and good wishes being sent her way.” 

Aphasia

Aphasia is a condition that affects language and communication abilities. There are more than 200,000 cases every year. Aphasia is often caused by strokes or head injury, but it may develop slowly due to brain tumors or neurological diseases. This disease is unfortunately not curable, but there are treatments to help. The recommended treatment is usually speech and language therapy. 

Frontotemporal Dementia

Frontotemporal dementia is a progressive disorder that impacts behavior and cognitive functions. The underlying causes are still not fully understood. A few symptoms can include trouble walking, difficulty with work, unusual behaviors, emotional problems, and trouble communicating. Unfortunately, there is no cure or treatment for this disease. 

Where is Wendy Williams? Documentary

A documentary about Wendy Williams’ life is set to premiere on Lifetime over two nights on February 24 and 25. The special was filmed over the past two years following the iconic host’s departure from The Wendy Williams Show in 2021. It captures Williams’ struggles after she was placed under financial guardianship and her talk show was unexpectedly canceled. 

Lifetime released a statement regarding the upcoming documentary, “Opening the doors to her private life like never before, cameras chronicled her comeback journey to reclaim her life and legacy despite facing health issues and personal turbulence.”