Wendy Williams has broken her silence on her recent aphasia and frontotemporal dementia diagnosis.
“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),” Williams, 59, said in a statement to TMZ on Friday, February 23. “Let me say, wow! Your response has been overwhelming.”
Williams shared that the warm messages she received had “touched” her and reminded her how powerful it is to feel united and compassionate.
“I hope that others with FTD may benefit from my story,” she continued. “I want to also thank the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration for their kind words of support and their extraordinary efforts to raise awareness of FTD.”
The former talk show host concluded her statement by sharing that she will still need “personal space and peace to thrive” but wanted to remind her fans that their “positivity and encouragement are deeply appreciated.”
On Thursday, February 22, Williams’ team revealed that she had been diagnosed with the condition after she underwent multiple tests in 2023 following bouts of memory loss.
“Receiving a diagnosis has enabled Wendy to receive the medical care she requires,” a press release via Page Six read. “The decision to share this news was difficult and made after careful consideration, not only to advocate for understanding and compassion for Wendy, but to raise awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia and support the thousands of others facing similar circumstances.”
According to the statement, Williams is “still able to do many things for herself” and maintains her “trademark sense of humor.” She is currently receiving treatment in an undisclosed facility.
This story is developing.