WASHINGTON — Hall of Fame NFL quarterback Brett Favre said during congressional testimony Tuesday that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
Favre, 54, revealed the diagnosis before the House Ways and Means Committee in Washington. The Republican-led congressional committee is investigating how states are failing to use welfare to help families in need.
Favre said he has repaid more than $1 million in fees for speeches he never gave and for radio spots paid for from Mississippi’s welfare fund. Favre has denied crime and sued the state auditor and two sportscasters for slander over the scandal.
Favre spent most of his career with the Green Bay Packers, winning one Super Bowl and three MVP awards. He finished his career with the Minnesota Vikings.
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the central nervous system that affects movement, often causing tremors. In the United States, approximately 500,000 people are diagnosed with the disease, according to National Institutes of Health. However, given that many people go undiagnosed, the actual number may be much higher.
While a tremor is perhaps the most well-known symptom of Parkinson’s, the disease can also cause stiffness, slower movements, stiffness, impaired balance and speech changes. The cause of Parkinson’s is unknown, but researchers believe several factors play a role, including genetics, environmental triggers and other health conditions.
There is currently no known cure for Parkinson’s disease, but a variety of medications can relieve symptoms. In some more advanced cases, surgery may be recommended.
Many other celebrities have gone public with their struggles with Parkinson’s, including Neil DiamondRichard Lewis and Michael J. Fox.
Note! The video above originally aired on October 10, 2023.
