The legal team highlights Wendy’s struggle with dementia, noting that she had been diagnosed with alcohol-related brain damage prior to her guardianship. This diagnosis was revealed in 2019 during a rehab stay in Florida, where a brain scan showed permanent damage caused by her alcohol abuse.
In January 2022, Wells Fargo initiated a guardianship process over Wendy’s financial matters after discovering troubling patterns in her welfare. The court records show that the financial institution took the step of seeking a guardian to manage her affairs, citing concerns about her well-being.
Wendy’s fans, who have long hoped for a comeback, were dealt a crushing blow with the confirmation of her ongoing health issues. The guardianship filing further reveals that certain aspects of Wendy’s health, finances, and family matters are being kept private, with legal motions for redactions to protect sensitive information.
In February 2024, Wendy's guardian attempted to block the release of Lifetime’s documentary by seeking a restraining order, but an appellate judge overturned the decision, ruling it would infringe on free speech. The legal battle continued when a lawsuit was filed against the networks and production companies behind the documentary, though the case has since moved to federal court.
Wendy's team has also publicly confirmed her diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia and aphasia, diseases that affect speech and cognitive function. The star, who has been open about her previous health struggles, including Graves' Disease and lymphedema, has now made the decision to raise awareness about these conditions and encourage compassion for others dealing with similar challenges.
Despite her ongoing battle, Wendy's team is hopeful that the diagnosis will allow her to receive the necessary medical care. Fans continue to rally behind the beloved host, even as her path to recovery remains uncertain.