Wendy Williams opens up about Aphasia and Dementia diagnosis

By Stacy M. BrownNNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia Wendy Williams’ team has confirmed that the former daytime talk show host has been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). In a press release, aides to Williams said her condition, including aphasia, has impacted her language and communication abilities, while FTD has impacted Williams’s behavior and cognitive functions. Last year, actor Bruce Willis also shared his battle with the same form of dementia. Known for hosting “The Wendy Williams Show” from 2008 to 2021, Williams has faced a myriad of health challenges leading to her departure, including Graves’ disease and lymphedema. The show ultimately concluded in June 2022 after several guest hosts took over. “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,” her team said in the news release. “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...