'Heartbreaking': Internet sends prayers as Wendy Williams is diagnosed with dementia and aphasia

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Wendy Williams has been diagnosed with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), as per her medical care team's announcement.

The iconic talk show host received her diagnosis in 2023. The press release stated that the conditions "have already presented significant hurdles in Wendy's life."

Wendy Williams' team says she maintains her trademark sense of humor

In the statement, the team said, "Wendy is still able to do many things for herself."

"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," the statement added.

"She is appreciative of the many kind thoughts and good wishes being sent her way," it continued.

What is aphasia and frontotemporal dementia?

Aphasia "robs you of the ability to communicate" and "can affect your ability to speak, write and understand language, both verbal and written," according to Mayo Clinic.

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), on the other hand, is an umbrella term for a "group of brain disorders that threatens the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain."

These parts of the brain are associated with changes in personality, behavior, and language.

The 59-year-old has been working with specialists at Weill Cornell Medicine following her aphasia and FTD diagnosis.

Inside Wendy Williams' ongoing health issues

Along with Williams' struggles with aphasia and dementia, she has also been dealing with other health issues including lymphedema, Graves' disease, and alcohol abuse.

In April 2023, the former talk show who has been appointed a court-appointed legal guardian entered a facility to treat her "cognitive issues."

Speaking to People, Williams' niece Alex shared insights into 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," Alex said.

Internet says Wendy Williams' dementia diagnosis is 'heartbreaking'

After Williams' medical team announced her aphasia and dementia diagnosis, netizens rallied to send their wishes to the beloved host.

"Wow seeing Wendy Williams like that is heartbreaking," a user wrote on X (formerly Twitter) and another wrote, "Damn Wendy Williams really going thru it …so sad"

"This Wendy Williams' news is making me so sad," a user tweeted while another wrote, "Wendy Williams is 59 years old and has dementia. That’s so terrible."

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