LOS ANGELES, California — Renowned television personality, Wendy Williams, has disclosed her diagnosis of primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia following a series of medical evaluations, her team revealed in a press statement issued on Thursday, February 22, 2024.
The announcement sheds light on a condition affecting over 2 million Americans, as estimated by the National Aphasia Association. Aphasia encompasses a range of speech and language comprehension impairments, often stemming from strokes, traumatic brain injuries, or progressive neurological disorders such as brain tumors.
Primary progressive aphasia, characterized by a gradual deterioration in language skills, can be attributed to various causes, including frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), a condition of which frontotemporal dementia is a subtype, according to the National Institute of Health. While aphasia can affect individuals of any age, it predominantly manifests in middle-aged or older populations.
Wendy Williams, 59, known for her forthcoming documentary “Where Is Wendy Williams?” scheduled for release on Feb. 24 on Lifetime, has been forthcoming about her health challenges, having previously discussed her battle with Graves’ disease, a thyroid disorder.
Despite her diagnosis, Williams’ team emphasized her continued ability to perform many daily activities independently. They noted her resilient sense of humor and affirmed that she is receiving the necessary care to address her needs and ensure her well-being. Expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support, the statement highlighted Williams’ determination to confront her health issues with courage and positivity.
