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Former talk show host Wendy Williams recently revealed that she has been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The update on her medical condition was provided as a new documentary about Williams and her whereabouts since leaving her talk show aired and generated a great deal of controversy.

I watched the documentary, “Where is Wendy Williams?” and while it was difficult to watch her cognitive struggles, a lot of people got an eye-opening education on the varied forms of dementia. While Alzheimer’s has moved more into the public awareness in recent years, dementia variants like FTD are less known and understood. For those who think dementia is just “memory loss” witnessing the symptoms Williams displayed, combined with the aphasia, should raise awareness of the distinct symptoms that dementia variants can present.

FTD can trigger personality-driven changes, with erratic behavior and mood swings. For the former radio personality and talk show host, aphasia is a particularly cruel diagnosis, as it impacts speech and language skills. All of these symptoms are on display in the documentary, further aggravated because of Williams self-medicating with alcohol. Williams was previously diagnosed with Graves’ disease and lymphedema.

The documentary also puts a spotlight on court-appointed guardianships, and how a system supposedly designed to protect the vulnerable can isolate the person and cause further harm. The Williams family feels cut off from providing care for their struggling family member, while those in Williams orbit approved by the guardian seem not equipped to handle such a complex case. There is also the challenge of convincing a loved one that they need help, which is something many families dealing with dementia are all too familiar with.

Actor Bruce Willis has also been diagnosed with FTD and aphasia. I’m grateful that both celebrities have chosen to go public with their dual diagnosis, as it will help raise awareness and hopefully funding for these conditions.

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