Wendy Williams Diagnosed with Progressive Aphasia and Frontotemporal Dementia
In a shocking announcement, television host Wendy Williams has revealed that she has been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia. Williams, who had taken a leave from her talk show in 2021 due to health issues, underwent a series of medical tests in 2023, leading to the diagnosis. These conditions affect language, communication behavior, and function, according to a news release.
The 59-year-old talk show host had previously been open about her diagnoses of Graves’ Disease and lymphedema. She initially took an indefinite leave from her long-running talk show, “Wendy,” which premiered in 2008. In 2022, it was announced that Sherri Shepherd would take over as the host of the show.
Williams’ care team shared the health update to correct inaccurate and hurtful rumors about her health. Over the past few years, fans had become concerned and confused as they witnessed Williams struggling to form words and acting erratically during tapings of her talk show.
So, what exactly are primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia? Aphasia is a condition that leaves patients struggling to understand language and communicate effectively. It gained widespread attention when actor Bruce Willis revealed his diagnosis in 2022. He later disclosed that he was also diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. Aphasia is usually a symptom of other medical issues such as stroke, head injury, tumor, or a degenerative brain condition.
Frontotemporal dementia, also known as FTD, refers to a group of brain disorders that affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. These lobes are associated with personality, behavior, and language. Some individuals with FTD experience dramatic changes in their personalities, becoming socially inappropriate, impulsive, or emotionally indifferent. Others may lose the ability to use language properly. Unlike Alzheimer’s, there is no clear test to definitively diagnose FTD. It tends to affect individuals in their 50s and 60s, as opposed to Alzheimer’s, which typically emerges at older ages.
While there is some genetic predisposition to dementia, it is not a person’s destiny. Dr. Gayatri Devi, a clinical professor of neurology at Northwell Health, emphasizes that there are other factors that can be addressed to prevent dementia. FTD accounts for about 10% to 20% of dementia cases, with an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 people diagnosed with FTD each year. However, it may be under-diagnosed, leading to a lack of proper care and support for those affected.
Williams’ decision to make her diagnoses public was a difficult one, but her team felt it was necessary to advocate for understanding and compassion for Wendy and to raise awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia. They want to support the thousands of others facing similar circumstances. Despite her health challenges, Williams still maintains her trademark sense of humor and is receiving the care she needs.
In addition to her health struggles, Williams has also faced legal battles concerning her finances. In 2022, she received a court-appointed guardianship after Wells Fargo alleged that she was of “unsound mind” and under “undue influence and financial exploitation.” However, Williams has denied these claims, and her son, Kevin Hunter Jr., has raised concerns about the guardianship. Her manager, Will Selby, refutes the claims, stating that she is not being taken advantage of.
The upcoming two-part documentary on Williams’ life, airing on Lifetime on February 24 and 25, provides a glimpse into her financial situation and the concerns raised by her family regarding her guardianship. In the trailer, Williams expresses distress over her finances, saying, “I have no money.” She also emphasizes the importance of family, stating, “I love being famous. But family is everything. Everything.”
Wendy Williams’ recent diagnosis has shed light on the challenges faced by individuals with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia. It serves as a reminder to prioritize understanding, compassion, and support for those living with these conditions. As Williams continues her journey, she remains an inspiration with her trademark sense of humor and determination to navigate through life’s obstacles.
