Wendy Williams has opened up about her recent dementia diagnosis in an exclusive statement to People.
Williams was diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The news prompted an outpouring of support and well-wishes, which Williams addressed as “overwhelming.”
“I want to express my immense gratitude for the love and kind words I have received after sharing my diagnosis of Aphasia and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD),” Williams said.
“Wow! Your response has been overwhelming. The messages shared with me have touched me deeply, reminding me of the power of unity and the need for compassion.
“I hope that others with FTD may benefit from my story. I also want to thank the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration for their support and efforts to raise awareness of FTD,” Williams added.
She emphasized her need for “personal space and peace to thrive,” while reassuring fans that their “positivity and encouragement are deeply appreciated.”
Williams’ representatives announced her diagnosis to dispel rumors surrounding the end of The Wendy Williams Show in 2022. Her diagnosis, received in 2023, has already “presented significant hurdles in Wendy’s life.”
Her team provided an update on her condition, stating she is “still able to do many things for herself.”
“Most importantly, she maintains her trademark sense of humor and is receiving the care she needs to ensure she is protected and her needs are met. She appreciates the many kind thoughts and good wishes being sent her way,” they concluded.
Aphasia is a syndrome of the nervous system that affects the patient’s ability to communicate, including the expression of thoughts and loss of speech and writing skills.
FTD is an incurable brain disorder caused by damage to the left side of the brain, leading to deterioration of language and communication.
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