India, June 13 -- Longtime ABC7 New York anchor Bill Ritter has revealed that he is living with Alzheimer's disease, explaining why he is stepping away from the anchor desk after decades as one of the station's most recognizable faces.

Ritter, who has been anchoring the 6 p.m. program since 2001, announced that Friday's show would be his final at WABC-TV.

"Unless someone finds an amazing cure, and soon, tonight (Friday) will be the last newscast I anchor," Ritter said.

Ritter shared the diagnosis with viewers in a heartfelt announcement that prompted an outpouring of support from colleagues, journalists and longtime viewers.

Ritter disclosed that he has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, a progressive neurological condition that...