Wendy Williams has spoken out following her diagnoses of dementia and aphasia, asking for "personal space".
In a press release from Williams' team, it was disclosed that the former host of The Wendy Williams Show received her diagnosis last year following a series of medical assessments in 2023.
The statement, issued on February 22, disclosed that doctors identified primary progressive aphasia in the 59-year-old, a condition affecting communication, speech, writing, and language comprehension, as outlined by Mayo Clinic.
Additionally, she was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a group of brain disorders affecting behavior, personality, language, and movement, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Symptoms of FTD range from loss of motor skills to difficulties in speech and tend to worsen over time. While it typically manifests between the ages of 40 and 65, it can affect younger individuals and is the most common form of dementia for those under 60.
Following her diagnosis, Williams spoke with PageSix to discuss her health and the support that she has received in the aftermath.
Fans were left 'heartbroken' after seeing Williams in this clip from her upcoming documentary:"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). Let me say, wow! Your response has been overwhelming," Williams said.
She continued: "The messages shared with me have touched me, reminding me of the power of unity and the need for compassion."
Expressing her desire to help others facing similar challenges, Williams extended her appreciation to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration for their support and efforts in raising awareness of FTD.
While acknowledging the support of her fans, Williams emphasized her need for space and peace to navigate her health journey, stating that she "[needs] personal space and peace to thrive."
In the wake of her diagnosis, snippets from Williams' upcoming documentary, Where Is Wendy Williams? set to air on February 24 and 25 on Lifetime, have circulated widely on social media platforms.
Executive produced by Williams herself, the documentary delves into the renowned host's health struggles, including Graves' disease, memory loss, and substance abuse.
One particular clip that has left many of Williams' supporters devastated is when former reality star Angela 'Blac Chyna' White checks in on her, and says: "You've always been like, honest with me, and put me in my place, in the most motherly, kind way."
The TV personality responded: "Well, my real name is Wendy Hunter. Yep. And I’m divorced. He’s got no money." White then gets emotional as she realizes her friend didn't understand anything she's been saying. White then says "I love you" to Williams, who replies: "So do I."
Williams has been undergoing treatment with specialists at Weill Cornell Medicine. The disclosure of her diagnosis aims to counteract "inaccurate and hurtful rumors" surrounding her health, according to her care team.
In a bid to raise awareness and advocate for understanding, the team emphasized the importance of dispelling the stigma surrounding aphasia and frontotemporal dementia.
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