By Reinaldo Oliveros
Sep 25, 2024, 11:00 PM EDT
Tommy Kramer, star quarterback of the Minnesota Vikings in the 1980s, revealed on Wednesday that he was diagnosed with dementia.
“I was diagnosed with dementia just over a year ago at the Cleveland Clinic from the NFL. Doctors say it could be two to 10 years before the deterioration, I just had an annual checkup and it hasn’t progressed and I’ve been sober for almost a year, which will definitely help,” Kramer, 69, shared through his social networks.
The former Vikings quarterback from 1977 to 1989 said he was encouraged to share his illness thanks to the bravery shown last Tuesday by Hall of Famer Brett Favre, a 54-year-old who starred with the Green Bay Packers, who revealed that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
“When Brett Favre announced my diagnosis, I felt motivated to let everyone know about it,” said the former player, who struggled with alcoholism for several years.
Tommy Kramer urges NFL to provide more support to players
Tommy Kramer thanked the NFL for the changes that has implemented in the rules to protect ‘quarterbacks’ and players from the blows that diminish the quality of life after retirement.
“I am grateful to the NFL that they are trying to do several things to protect today’s players. Financially I’m fine, But I know there are teammates I played with who need all the help they can get.”
Despite these words, he also pointed out that the league could show more support to players who do not have the financial resources to cover the high costs of medical services that are paid for having these types of diseases.
“Unfortunately for methe NFL will only try to help with my medical bills and therapies that my personal insurance does not cover. “I hope to raise some awareness for the NFL to help future players who are battling illnesses like mine,” he said.
In 14 years in the league, Tommy Kramer accumulated 24,777 yards, 159 touchdown passes and 158 interceptions.
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