Daytime talk show legend, Wendy Williams has been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD)
Wendy Williams‘ team confirmed her diagnosis in a press release on Thursday, February 22.
Over the past few years, questions have been raised at times about Wendy’s ability to process information and many have speculated about Wendy’s condition, particularly when she began to lose words, act erratically at times, and have difficulty understanding financial transactions.
In 2023, after undergoing a battery of medical tests, Wendy was officially diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Aphasia, a condition affecting language and communication abilities, and frontotemporal dementia, a progressive disorder impacting behavior and cognitive functions, have already presented significant hurdles in Wendy’s life.
Wendy would not have received confirmation of these diagnoses were it not for the diligence of her current care team, who she chose, and the extraordinary work of the specialists at Weill Cornell Medicine. Receiving a diagnosis has enabled Wendy to receive the medical care she requires.
The decision to share this news was difficult and made after careful consideration, not only to advocate for understanding and compassion for Wendy, but to raise awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia and support the thousands of others facing similar circumstances. Unfortunately, many individuals diagnosed with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia face stigma and misunderstanding, particularly when they begin to exhibit behavioral changes but have not yet received a diagnosis.
There is hope that with early detection and far more empathy, the stigma associated with dementia will be eliminated, and those affected will receive the understanding, support, and care they deserve and need.
Wendy is still able to do many things for herself. 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 is a condition that affects language and communication abilities, while FTD is a disorder that impacts behavior and cognitive functions.
Williams made a name for herself as the host of “The Wendy Williams Show” from 2008 to 2021.
She stepped down from hosting amid medical issues and was public about her struggles with Graves’ Disease and lymphedema. Her talk show was later canceled and aired its final episode in June 2022 after several guest hosts filled in for her.
