Wendy Williams Breaks Silence on Aphasia and Frontotemporal Dementia Diagnoses
Wendy Williams
Wendy Williams has broken her silence following the announcement earlier this week that she has been diagnosed with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia.
The former Wendy Williams Show host received her diagnosis in 2023 following “a battery of medical tests," her care team said on Feb. 22.
“I want to say I have immense gratitude for the love and kind words I have received after sharing my diagnosis of Aphasia and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD),” Williams, 59, said in a statement shared with People.
“Let me say, wow! Your response has been overwhelming,” she continued. “The messages shared with me have touched me, reminding me of the power of unity and the need for compassion. I hope that others with FTD may benefit from my story. I want to also thank the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration for their kind words of support and their extraordinary efforts to raise awareness of FTD.”
Williams’ statement concluded with a personal request. “I continue to need personal space and peace to thrive,” she said. “Please just know that your positivity and encouragement are deeply appreciated.”
Aphasia is a language disorder that impacts a person’s ability to communicate, while FTD impacts a person’s behavior and cognitive functions. FTD is the “most common” type of dementia that people under 60 are diagnosed with, according to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration, though it can affect older people as well.
Bruce Willis, 68, is also battling aphasia and FTD. His family revealed his FTD diagnosis last year following his decision to retire from acting.
In Williams’ case, these health issues “have already presented significant hurdles in Wendy's life,” according to her care team. They explained in a Feb. 22 press release that Williams’ decision to go public with her health diagnoses was made following years of questions that arose when she appeared to have trouble choosing her words or occasionally acted “erratically.”
“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,” her care team said.
Next: Inside Wendy Williams' Health and Battle With Graves' Disease, Dementia and Aphasia
