Brett Favre announced he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
On Tuesday, September 24, the 54-year-old former Green Bay Packers quarterback shared the tough news while testifying about his alleged pocketing of public funds during a Congressional hearing on welfare reform in Washington, D.C.
Brett Favre testifies before the House Ways and Means Committee at the Longworth House Office Building on September 24, 2024 in Washington, DC. The former NFL quarterback testified on reforming Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and the misuse of welfare funds.
Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
“Sadly, I also lost an investment in a company that I believed was developing a breakthrough concussion drug I thought would help others,” Favre said during his opening statement. “I’m sure you’ll understand, while it’s too late for me because I’ve recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, this is also a cause dear to my heart.”
The NFL legend was in front of the House Ways and Means Committee to talk about Prevacus, a company working on a cure for concussions. Favre had been a big supporter, even helping raise $2 million in funds meant for families in need, to put toward this research. However, there’s a lawsuit claiming that money ended up benefiting the football star personally instead of the research it was meant for. Favre has denied the allegations against him.
After the Super Bowl champ’s health update, it didn’t take long for social media to light up. Fans quickly took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to express their support and concern.
“Blows to the head, concussions cause Parkinson’s. Now you know why they are paid the big bucks. The risks of bodily harm and long-term consequences are real,” one fan pointed out.
Others shared personal anecdotes and prayers. “😱 OMGosh this is sad. So sorry- Prayers for @BrettFavre 🙏🏼🏈,” a fan posted, while another added, “God help you if you ever forget how much you have done for people and how grateful we are for your unselfish sacrifices. We’re with you Brett Favre!”
However, not all reactions were supportive. As Favre’s legal and financial controversies mingled with his health news, some critics were unsparing. “@BrettFavre karma’s a b**** ain’t it?” one person posted. Another remarked, “Just did my own research. Turns out stealing millions from taxpayers & needy people is not a side effect of Parkinson’s. It’s a terrible disease with bleak outcomes, but doesn’t have any bearing on congressional testimony about his role in the corruption & defrauding of welfare.”
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