Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre testified on Tuesday to a Congressional committee that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
The news shocked the sports world. Favre is an NFL legend, an Iron Man in the world of athletics, and an icon in Wisconsin.
He famously played in 321 straight games (by far the NFL record) regardless of injury – including blows to the head. So, hearing that he is battling such a disease is startling.
“Sadly, I also lost an investment in a company that I believed was developing a breakthrough concussion drug I thought would help others, and I’m sure you’ll understand why it’s too late for me because I’ve recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s,” Favre told lawmakers at a hearing about welfare fraud.
An outpouring of support started going out to ‘The Gunslinger’ on social media.
Here’s how the sporting world reacted to the heartbreaking news.
Support For Brett Favre After Parkinson’s Announcement
The Green Bay Packers themselves issued a statement upon learning of Brett Favre’s Parkinson’s diagnosis.
“The thoughts of the Packers and our fans are with Brett and his family as they navigate this difficult diagnosis,” the Packers said.
Burgess Owens, who won a Super Bowl with the Oakland Raiders, simply replied with a praying emoji.
“God help you if you ever forget how much you have done for people and how grateful we are for your unselfish sacrifices,” a fan wrote on X. “We’re with you Brett Favre!”
Former WWE wrestler Chris Nowinski, a neuroscientist who has done extensive research on concussions, called the diagnosis “sad news” and pointed out the link between brain injuries in sports and Parkinson’s disease.
A ‘Chicago History’ account even offered a sympathetic message to the legendary quarterback.
“Our thoughts & prayers are with Brett Favre & his Family. He revealed today that he has Parkinson’s,” they responded on X. “Favre was the greatest opponent The Bears ever faced.”
Southern Mississippi men’s basketball coach Jay Ladner said the diagnosis “shows you how vulnerable all of us are.”
“You can’t take any day for granted. I can tell you it’s weighing heavily on his mind,” Ladner added. “My heart goes out to him.”
“Prayers for Brett Favre and his family. Being the ultimate competitor sometimes exacts a toll,” former ESPN reporter Ed Werder expressed. “Hopefully he can enjoy many more healthy years.”
RELATED: Hall Of Fame Quarterback Brett Favre Announces Parkinson’s Diagnosis
Favre Speaks Out
Brett Favre also took a moment to address his Parkinson’s diagnosis and thank fans for their support in a post on social media.
“First, I want to thank God for all He has done in my life,” he wrote. “Next, thanks to Congress for giving me the platform to discuss a much-needed TANF reform.”
“As you know, I was recently diagnosed w/Parkinson’s which has been an ordeal. My wife, family, and friends have been supportive and I want to thank them for being there for me,” added Favre. “To my fans and those wishing well — thank you all for the love.”
Repetitive head trauma and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) have been linked to Parkinson’s disease.
Favre, a three-time National Football League MVP, has openly questioned whether or not he has cognitive lapses potentially caused by CTE, and believes he suffered over 1,000 concussions during his playing career.
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