Talk Show Host Wendy Williams, 59, Diagnosed with Primary Progressive Aphasia
Wendy Williams, talk show host and media personality, has been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), per her medical care team. According to a statement released on February 22nd, Williams received her diagnosis last year. Her team went on to state that the condition has “already presented significant hurdles in Wendy’s life.”
Williams is working with specialists at Weill Cornell Medicine. Sadly, she’s not the only celebrity who’s received this diagnosis. Die Hard star Bruce Willis was also diagnosed with FTD, following an aphasia diagnosis in 2022.
Both Wendy Williams’ sister Wanda Finnie and niece Alex Finnie told PEOPLE that they’ve noticed a positive change in Williams’ condition. “She sounds really great,” Alex stated. “To hear my aunt now in terms of just how clear she is, just how focused she is on the importance of family and the reality in terms of facing and understanding where she’s at physically and mentally and emotionally, it is like a 180.” Sadly, there is no cure for FTD, nor any known treatments to slow or stop the progression of the disease.
However, Williams’ team stated that she is “able to do many things for herself.” They also added that she has “maintained her trademark sense of humor and is receiving the care she requires to make sure she is protected and that her needs are addressed. She is appreciative of the many kind thoughts and good wishes being sent her way.”
Looking for More Dementia Resources?
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of FTD or other forms of dementia, then contact a doctor as soon as possible.
For additional dementia resources, visit these links:
Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Senior Resource Center
Popular Articles About Alzheimer's and Dementia
Originally published March 04, 2024
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