Wendy Williams, the former talk show host, has recently been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia and aphasia, according to a press release from her healthcare team. The diagnoses were made in 2023 after Williams underwent a series of medical tests. These conditions have already presented significant challenges in her life, impacting her behavior, cognitive functions, and language and communication abilities.
The decision to share Williams’ diagnoses with the public was made in order to correct inaccurate and hurtful rumors about her health. Over the past few years, questions have been raised about her ability to process information, and speculation about her condition has been rampant, especially when she began to experience difficulties with speech and understanding financial transactions.
Despite the diagnoses, Williams is still able to do many things for herself and maintains her trademark sense of humor. She is receiving the necessary care to ensure her well-being and address her needs. The press release concludes with a note of gratitude for the kind thoughts and good wishes being sent her way.
This news comes just days before the premiere of the Lifetime documentary “Where Is Wendy Williams?” The documentary follows Williams’ attempt to launch a comeback with a podcast but ultimately captures her struggles with alcohol addiction and various health issues, including Graves’ disease and lymphedema.
In an interview with People magazine, Williams’ family revealed that she has been in a facility since April 2023 to receive treatment for cognitive issues. Due to Williams’ legal guardianship, her family members have not been able to call or visit her, raising questions about how they arrived at this point.
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) affects both the frontal lobe, which controls personality and empathy, and the temporal lobe, which controls language and communication. It is estimated that up to 60,000 people in the United States have been diagnosed with FTD. The length of progression varies from two to over 20 years, with an average life expectancy of seven to 13 years after the start of symptoms.
Susan Dickinson, the CEO of the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD), explained that FTD is a degenerative condition with no disease-modifying treatments currently available. However, there are promising therapeutic candidates in clinical trials. Dickinson emphasized the importance of early and accurate diagnosis to provide validation and access to support and information.
Unfortunately, there are stigmas associated with FTD, often stemming from misunderstandings and misdiagnoses. It can take up to four years to receive a diagnosis, during which time relationships may suffer due to the symptoms and their impact on behavior. Dickinson stressed the need for society to understand that FTD is a medical condition and not a result of personal shortcomings or character flaws.
While Williams faces significant challenges ahead, her diagnoses have shed light on these conditions and the importance of early detection and support. With ongoing research and advancements in treatment, there is hope for a brighter future for those affected by frontotemporal dementia and aphasia.
