Legendary quarterback Brett Favre, 54, disclosed that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease during his testimony at a congressional hearing on Tuesday. The Hall of Famer was speaking at a House Ways and Means Committee hearing focused on welfare reform when he revealed his recent diagnosis.
Favre, widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, shared his health update while discussing the broader challenges of access to healthcare and the need for reform. “I was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease,” Favre said. “It has been a tough road, but I’m committed to raising awareness and supporting those who face similar battles.”
Favre, who led the Green Bay Packers to a Super Bowl victory in 1997, is known for his toughness on the field, having played 20 seasons in the NFL. His announcement adds to the growing awareness of the long-term health issues faced by athletes, particularly those involved in high-contact sports like football.
Despite the diagnosis, Favre remains active in his philanthropic efforts, including advocating for better healthcare access for low-income individuals, which was the subject of Tuesday’s hearing. His commitment to using his platform to bring attention to critical issues continues, even in the face of personal challenges.
As Favre navigates his health journey, he is expected to work with organizations dedicated to Parkinson’s research and support, further extending his legacy beyond the football field.