Wendy Williams diagnosed with dementia and aphasia – reports
American television talk show host Wendy Williams has been diagnosed with dementia and aphasia, according to US media reports.
Williams was diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia last year, her representatives reportedly announced in a press release Thursday.
“Wendy would not have received confirmation of these diagnoses were it not for the diligence of her current care team, who she chose, and the extraordinary work of the specialists at Weill Cornell Medicine. Receiving a diagnosis has enabled Wendy to receive the medical care she requires,” the press release reportedly said.
The 59-year-old Williams has battled health challenges for a number of years.
Her representatives reportedly said the decision to share her diagnosis “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.”
The release reportedly added that many individuals diagnosed with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia face stigma and misunderstanding, “particularly when they begin to exhibit behavioral changes but have not yet received a diagnosis.”
However, it said “there is hope that with early detection and far more empathy, the stigma associated with dementia will be eliminated, and those affected will receive the understanding, support, and care they deserve and need.”
The representatives were quoted as saying that Williams “is still able to do many things for herself” and maintains “her trademark sense of humor and is receiving the care she requires to make sure she is protected and that her needs are addressed.”
