LOS ANGELES (NEWSnet/AP) — Former talk show host Wendy Williams has been diagnosed with dementia.
It’s the same form of dementia faced by actor Bruce Willis, according to Williams’ caretaker.
The diagnosis of primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia presented “significant hurdles in Wendy’s life” and have behavioral and cognitive impact, the caretaker said.
Her care team said is is able to do many things for herself and has maintained her sense of humor.
“She is appreciative of the many kind thoughts and good wishes being sent her way,” the team said.
The statement on Williams’ health was issued on PR Newswire.
The announcement came a day after a story in People magazine quoted Williams’ family about the nature of her struggle, in advance of a Lifetime documentary set to air Saturday.
Her family told People they don’t know where she is and cannot call her themselves, but she can call them.
Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration describes FTD as a group of brain disorders caused by degeneration of the frontal and/or temporal lobes of the brain that affects behavior, language and movement. Aphasia, a brain disorder that can lead to problems speaking or understanding words, can be a symptom of it. The association describes frontotemporal degeneration as “an inevitable decline in functioning,” with an average life expectancy of seven to 13 years after the onset of symptoms.
The association was involved in the disclosure of Willis’ diagnosis in February 2023, hosting a statement posted by the actor’s family.
Follow NEWSnet on Facebook and X platform to get our headlines in your social feeds.
Copyright 2024 NEWSnet and The Associated Press. All rights reserved.