Detroit Radio: CKLW's Lisa Williams Returns After Voice Loss

Lisa Williams

Lisa Williams, the popular co-host of CKLW 800 AM’s morning show, was back on the air Monday after a three-month absence due to an ailment that caused the loss of her voice.

But, according to The Windsor Star,  the return will be short-lived, at least for now. Following another day off Tuesday, she’ll be back Wednesday, then take the rest of the week off.

She will use up unclaimed vacation time to work two-, three-, and four-day weeks through the end of February, then return full-time in March.

“It’s a little anti-climactic,” Williams said following her shift Monday. “You prepare to go back to work after three months off and go back for a day and you’re off again.”

Williams developed what she thought was laryngitis in October and took some time off. But a week turned into two and two into three before she went to a doctor.

A scope of her throat showed nodules on the vocal cords, but it is still unclear what the source cause is for her condition. She has managed to control it with rest and breathing exercises, and the voice is almost back to normal.

“I wish I knew what the problem is so it can be treated properly,” she said. “Not knowing is adding to the stress.”

Williams continues to make weekly treks to a speech pathologist. But she is off many of the drugs her ear, nose and throat specialist originally prescribed.

In her absence from the station, various guest announcers have filled in for her alongside co-host Mike Kakuk.