American TV personality and broadcaster Wendy Williams has been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
Williams, 59, who hosted her self-titled talk show from 2008 to 2022, has also faced health struggles recently with graves’ disease and lymphedema.
The news was announced in a press release by her care team on behalf of Williams, and has been widely reported by multiple US publications.
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“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,” the release read.
“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.”
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“Receiving a diagnosis has enabled Wendy to receive the medical care she requires.”
The team said they were sharing the news to help raise awareness of the diseases and said Williams is “appreciative” of the support and well-wishes she’s received.
It finished, giving an update on how she’s doing.
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“Wendy is still able to do many things for herself. Most importantly she maintains her trademark sense of humour and is receiving the care she requires to make sure she is protected and that her needs are addressed,” it read.
Hollywood actor Bruce Willis also suffers from aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
According to the Mayo Clinic, FTD is an “umbrella term for a group of brain disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. These areas of the brain are generally associated with personality, behaviour and language.”
According to People, Williams sought treatment at a facility for ”cognitive issues” in April last year.
Her niece Alex told the publication this week that she ”sounds really great” when giving an update on her health.
Two years ago, Williams denied mental health allegations after her bank accounts were frozen.
The Wendy Williams Show ran from 2008 to 2022 and was nominated for Emmys and People’s Choice Awards.