Wendy Williams Diagnosed with Aphasia and Frontotemporal Dementia

Summary:

• Wendy Williams diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia; facing significant hurdles in life.

• Conditions robs her of communication ability and threatens frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Symptoms worsen over time.

• Williams has entered a facility for cognitive issues and positive change has been noted in her condition.

Wendy Williams has been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).

According to a new press release, the former talk show host, 59, has apparently been diagnosed as of last year and her medical team is now sharing the condition in which she is in. According to the press release, the medical team said the conditions “have already presented significant hurdles in Wendy’s life.”

“Wendy is still able to do many things for herself,” the team said in a statement. “Most importantly she 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. She is appreciative of the many kind thoughts and good wishes being sent her way.”

According to Mayo Clinic, aphasia “robs you of the ability to communicate” and “can affect your ability to speak, write and understand language, both verbal and written.” The group adds that the condition “typically occurs suddenly after a stroke or a head injury. But it can also come on gradually from a slow-growing brain tumor or a disease that causes progressive, permanent damage (degenerative).”

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a brain disorder that threatens the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. The shrinking of this area can cause speech issues, emotional problems and changes in personality.

Other symptoms can include a loss of motor skills, problems walking, swallowing and muscle spasms. Symptoms tend to get worse over time. Patients typically begin to notice symptoms between 40 – 65 years of age, but it can affect people who are younger. It is the most common form of dementia for people under 60.

As of late, Williams has been dealing with other health issues including Graves’ disease, lymphedema and alcohol abuse.

The star has entered a facility to treat “cognitive issues” in April 2023 and has been appointed a court-appointed legal guardian.

Wanda Finnie and Alex recently issued a statement to PEOPLE as of late saying there has been a positive change in her condition.

“She sounds really great. 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,” said Alex.

“I don’t know what is working, but I do know that when she did reach out to me, it was a person who is remarkably different than what we see in that documentary,” Wanda shared, referring to Where Is Wendy Williams?, Lifetime’s new documentary filmed between August 2022 and April 2023.