Former US talk show host Wendy Williams has expressed her gratitude to fans for their support following her recent diagnosis of dementia and aphasia. Williams, 59, released a statement through the Associated Press, acknowledging the overwhelming response from her fans and emphasizing the power of unity and compassion.
Williams, who hosted the nationally syndicated Wendy Williams Show for over a decade, faced health struggles that led to the show’s end in 2022. Her care team decided to announce her diagnosis in order to address inaccurate and hurtful rumors surrounding her health. The statement clarified that Williams had previously been open about her medical challenges, including Graves’ Disease and Lymphedema.
In recent years, questions had been raised about Williams’ ability to process information, leading to speculation about her condition. She experienced difficulties with word retrieval, erratic behavior, and trouble understanding financial transactions. These concerns prompted her care team to conduct a battery of medical tests last year, which confirmed the diagnosis of dementia and aphasia.
Aphasia is a nervous system syndrome that affects communication, often causing patients to struggle with expressing thoughts and even losing their ability to speak or write. Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is an incurable brain disorder that damages the left side of the brain, impacting language and communication abilities. The symptoms of FTD worsen over time, and while they can be managed, there is currently no treatment to slow or prevent their progression, according to the National Institutes of Health.
It is worth noting that FTD tends to affect individuals at a younger age compared to other forms of dementia, with most diagnoses occurring between the ages of 45 and 64. Hollywood star Bruce Willis also suffers from aphasia and frontotemporal dementia, which ultimately led him to retire from his acting career.
Williams’ diagnosis has shed light on these lesser-known conditions and sparked conversations about the challenges faced by individuals living with dementia and aphasia. The outpouring of support from her fans serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and compassion in times of adversity.
As Williams continues to navigate her health journey, her gratitude towards her fans remains unwavering. The love and kind words she has received have provided her with strength and comfort during this difficult time. Despite the challenges ahead, Williams’ statement serves as a testament to her resilience and determination to face her diagnosis head-on.
Dementia and aphasia may present formidable obstacles, but with the support of loved ones and the power of unity, individuals like Wendy Williams can find solace and strength in their journey.