Wendy Williams diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia & frontotemporal dementia
Written by torresanz on February 22, 2024
In breaking news, reps for Wendy Williams have announced that the beloved host has been diagnosed with progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
Ahead of the premiere of Lifetime television special ‘Where is Wendy Williams,’ a lengthy statement from Williams’ care team shared news of her condition.
The move comes as members of the 59-year-old’s family relayed that they proceeded with the special due to an inability to reach Williams and an alleged lack of information for her court-appointed carer.
Per the statement, the disclosure has been shared to contextualize the situation at hand and spotlight the condition.
The full Press Release:
“On behalf of Wendy Williams Hunter, her care team is sharing this very personal update with her cherished fans, friends, and supporters to correct inaccurate and hurtful rumors about her health.
As Wendy’s fans are aware, in the past she has been open with the public about her medical struggles with Graves’ Disease and Lymphedema as well as other significant challenges related to her health.
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.”
According to Lifetime Network, “Where Is Wendy Williams?” (The 2-Part Documentary) will provide a “raw, honest and unfiltered reality” of Williams’ life in recent years and tell “Wendy’s journey to resurrect her career, and what filmmakers discovered along the way.”
The first part will debut on Lifetime on Saturday, Feb. 24, at 8 p.m. ET. The second will air on Lifetime on Feb. 25.
1073VIP would like to extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers out to Wendy Williams & her Family.
