Brett Favre shares optimistic outlook despite Parkinson’s battle: 'I’m a very blessed man'
HATTIESBURG, MISSISSIPPI: NFL Hall of Famer Brett Favre is approaching his Parkinson’s diagnosis with optimism, even as he navigates the challenges of the disease.
Speaking to TMZ Sports, the 55-year-old legend admitted that stiffness and rigidity have become part of his daily routine but expressed gratitude for early detection and manageable symptoms.
Brett Favre’s inspiring take on Parkinson’s battle
Favre revealed that doctors caught the disease at an exceptionally early stage, noting, “My doctor said you may be the earliest patient I’ve ever seen to come in.” This early diagnosis, paired with effective medication, has kept his symptoms under control.
Despite his positive outlook, Favre shared that mornings are the toughest time for him.
“When I wake up in the morning, I feel like a board. I don’t need any help because of football to be any stiffer. But, all things considered, I’m a very blessed man.”
His main struggles include muscle stiffness and some minor shaking, but he emphasized that the support from friends, family, and fans has been overwhelming.
Brett Favre reveals Parkinson’s diagnosis during federal welfare reform hearing
NFL legend Brett Favre made the startling revelation regarding his health, announcing in September that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. The former Green Bay Packers quarterback shared the news during a federal welfare reform hearing in Congress, shedding light on his ongoing battle with the condition.
Favre, who has had a decorated career in football, also revealed a financial setback, stating that he had lost investments in a company developing a drug to treat concussions, a cause he had championed due to his own history with head injuries.
Favre has long been an advocate for children’s safety in sports, specifically urging parents to keep their kids away from tackle football until they are at least 14 years old. With a career marked by numerous concussions, Favre's personal experience has shaped his views on the risks associated with head injuries. Speaking candidly about his own struggles, he explained that after hard tackles on the field, he would experience symptoms like flashes of light and ringing in his ears.
In a recent interview, Favre opened up about a head injury he sustained during his final NFL game, emphasizing how the NFL did not give sufficient attention to concussions during his playing days.
Although the league has made strides in concussion protocols since then, Favre remains critical of the lack of care for such injuries during his active years.
Favre’s announcement about his Parkinson's diagnosis came during a hearing related to the 2020 Mississippi welfare scandal, though he has not faced criminal charges.
His legacy as one of the most beloved NFL players remains intact, despite his ongoing health challenges. After spending the majority of his career with the Packers, Favre also played for the Minnesota Vikings and the New York Jets, further cementing his place in NFL history.
