While the former syndicated talk show host of \u201cThe Wendy Williams Show\u201d has been open with fans about living with Graves\u2019 disease<\/a>, an autoimmune disorder that can cause an overactive thyroid, and lymphedema<\/a>, the build-up of fluid in soft body tissues, Williams\u2019 latest diagnoses come on the heels of \u201cinaccurate and hurtful rumors about her health,\u201d her representatives said in a statement.<\/p>\n \u201cOver the past few years, questions have been raised at times about Wendy\u2019s ability to process information,\u201d the statement read<\/a>. \u201cMany have speculated about Wendy\u2019s condition, particularly when she began to lose words, act erratically at times, and have difficulty understanding financial transactions.\u201d<\/p>\n The news release calls for more empathy for people with aphasia and dementia, who particularly face stigma ahead of a diagnosis. Actor Bruce Willis was diagnosed with aphasia in 2022<\/a> and FTD in 2023.<\/p>\n Williams\u2019 team didn\u2019t specify when in 2023 she received these diagnoses, but applauded the work of specialists at Weill Cornell Medicine<\/a> in New York City.<\/p>\n \u201cWendy is still able to do many things for herself,\u201d the statement read. \u201cMost 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n News of Williams\u2019 condition comes two days before the premiere of \u201cWhere is Wendy Williams?\u201d<\/a> on Lifetime. The four-episode series is scheduled to air Feb. 24-25 and includes coverage of her mental and physical health issues.<\/p>\n
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