Days after what would have been the late Robin Williams' 73rd birthday, one particularly difficult detail about his death has resurfaced. Before the late actor died by suicide in 2014, he was misdiagnosed with Parkinson's disease — an error that wasn't discovered until his autopsy had been performed. His son, Zak Williams, has also spoken out about the ways the misdiagnosis affected his father at the end of his life.
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Two years before Robin's death, he was given a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease — an incurable, progressive disorder that causes symptoms like tremor, changes in speech, rigid muscles, and a loss of automatic movements like blinking.
However, his autopsy revealed that he was actually suffering from Lewy body dementia, which can present with similar symptoms to Parkinson's disease.
The period after Robin's misdiagnosis was frustrating for him, according to what his now 41-year-old son, Zak, said during an appearance on The Genius Life podcast in 2021.
Zak said that, at the time, his dad knew that what he was experiencing didn't match exactly with Parkinson's disease symptoms, and said that he may have been having side effects of medications to treat a disease he didn't actually have.
"There was a focus issue that frustrated him, there were issues associated with how he felt, and also from a neurological perspective, he didn't feel great. He was very uncomfortable," Zak said.
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"I don't want to say it was a short period. It felt a lot longer than it actually was because it was a period for him of intense searching and frustration," he said. "I couldn't help but feel beyond empathy. I couldn't help but feel frustrated for him. It can be really isolating even when you're with family and loved ones."
Zak shared a tribute to his dad on what would have been his 73rd birthday, July 21, 2024.
Alongside a black-and-white photo of Robin, Zak wrote, "Dad, on what would be your 73rd birthday, I remember you for all the hope and joy you brought to the world."
"There's not a week that goes by without someone sharing with me how you helped them through a dark time or a rough patch," he continued. "I'm so grateful and proud to be your son. Love you forever."
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
