JERUSALEM (VINnews) — Israeli opposition leader Benny Gantz has disclosed that his wife, Revital, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease several years ago, ending a long period in which the family chose to keep her condition out of the public eye.

Speaking in a television interview, Gantz said the family decided not to discuss the diagnosis publicly in order to protect their privacy and allow family members to cope with the situation away from public scrutiny.

According to Gantz, concerns first arose while his wife was pursuing doctoral studies. After a series of medical evaluations and neurological tests, doctors diagnosed her with Alzheimer’s disease at what he described as a relatively advanced stage.

Gantz said receiving the diagnosis marked a turning point for both him and his wife.

Despite the challenges at home, Gantz continued serving in senior military, government and political roles. He said he spent years balancing public responsibilities with the demands of caring for a loved one suffering from a progressive illness.

As the disease advanced, the family eventually made the difficult decision to move Revital Gantz to a specialized care facility. Gantz described the move as one of the most painful decisions he has faced, while emphasizing that she remains an important part of the family’s life.

He also said he is working on a book that will include reflections on the family’s experience coping with Alzheimer’s disease and the impact it has had on their lives.