When life takes unexpected turns, it can leave deep scars. Frank Fritz, a well-known television personality, knows this all too well. His personal life took a downward spiral, but through it all, he showed incredible strength and resilience. Let’s dive into Frank’s journey of overcoming obstacles and finding hope.
Frank’s life took a positive turn when he met Diann Bankson in 2014. Their relationship blossomed during a challenging period for Frank, who was going through a difficult divorce. They moved in together and even bought a farmhouse in Iowa. However, the strain of Frank’s divorce proceedings began to affect him, leading to struggles with alcoholism, unemployment, and other health issues. Despite these hardships, their time together left a lasting impact on both Frank and Diann.
In November of a particular year, their relationship took an unexpected turn when Diann claimed to have discovered Frank in bed with another woman. To remind himself of the pain he had caused, Frank chose to get a tattoo that said, “Once a cheater, always a cheater.” This event marked the end of their relationship, causing Frank emotional and financial turmoil. He turned to heavy drinking to cope with his heartbreak, which ultimately led to significant weight loss.
Frank did everything in his power to make their relationship work. He even bought an expensive ring and a new home, but it wasn’t enough for Diann, who caused him immense pain and anguish. However, Frank’s troubles didn’t end there.
At around the same time, Frank’s co-star, Mike Wolfe, was dealing with his own struggles. His troubled marital history had left him hurt and broken, prompting him to take a break from the dating scene. Additionally, Mike lost his job when he announced he would no longer be hosting American Pickers after the March season in 2020.
Throughout this period, Frank faced health issues that required back surgery. This forced him to take a hiatus from the show, but he expressed his desire to return once he had fully recovered. Despite rumors and speculation, the decision on his return was yet to be made. However, Frank remained optimistic, stating that a showrunner had reached out and promised to bring him back. Yet, according to TMZ, there were no immediate plans for his return as a host.
While Frank was navigating his personal struggles, Diann had started a new chapter with her boyfriend, Eric Longlett, an engineering administration supervisor. Diann expressed her happiness in posts on social media, sharing moments like witnessing Elton John’s Yellow Brick Road Farewell Tour with him.
However, tragedy struck on July 4, 2022, when Frank suffered a stroke at his home. Thanks to a quick-thinking associate who called 911, Frank received immediate medical attention. He was taken to the hospital, where his father, Bill Fritz, reported that he was doing well and recovering daily. Unfortunately, his rehabilitation didn’t progress as expected, leading to the need for guardianship and his transfer to a nursing home upon his release.
On August 18, 2022, a long-time friend was granted permission to manage Frank’s guardianship and conservatorship in an emergency. This friend became Frank’s guardian, while a bank was chosen to oversee his financial matters. These responsibilities included ensuring his daily care payments, health insurance, maintenance charges, property taxes, and transportation for activities and medical appointments.
To be officially appointed as Frank’s guardian, his friend had to submit paperwork outlining an initial plan of care. This individual has been making decisions for Frank since his stroke. These decisions include determining his living circumstances, healthcare, activities, and communication with family or potential romantic interests. The guardian is also required to create an annual report detailing their time caring for Frank.
The submitted paperwork revealed that Frank’s health was rapidly deteriorating. He was unable to make independent decisions or manage his finances effectively. This new information painted a bleaker picture of his condition than previously known.
It is truly heartbreaking to see someone as well-known as Frank Fritz face such adversity. We can only hope that he recovers swiftly and regains control of his life. The appointed guardian will make crucial decisions about Frank’s health and well-being until he can undergo treatment and resume his daily activities safely.
During this challenging time, our thoughts are with Frank Fritz. We wish him the best in his recovery as he bravely faces this unexpected journey. Let us all come together to support him and keep him in our prayers.
