NFL Hall of Famer Brett Favre has announced that he was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 54.
The Packers legend revealed the shocking health care update while speaking at a Congressional hearing on Social Security default and reform.
While testifying, Favre read from pre-written notes and began talking about the now-defunct pharmaceutical company Prevacus, in which he was the largest outside investor.
“Unfortunately, I also lost an investment in a company that I believed was developing a breakthrough concussion drug that I thought could help others,” he said.
‘I’m sure you understand that it’s too late for me, as I was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s, but this is also a cause that is close to my heart.’
Favre, who played 20 years in the NFL, has previously spoken openly about suffering “thousands” of concussions on the football field.
Last year, Favre became embroiled in the largest fraud case in state history when he was named in a civil lawsuit filed by the Mississippi Department of Human Services.
It is alleged that at least $77 million in social funds intended for needy families were instead funneled to the rich and powerful, while $8 million went to Favre himself or to causes he supported.
Favre, who denies any wrongdoing and has not faced any criminal charges, paid back $1.1 million in two installments in 2020 and 2021, but is still being pursued by Mississippi State Auditor Shad White for $727,000 in interest.
The NFL icon also recently sued former NFL players and media commentators Shannon Sharpe and Pat McAfee over comments made about him and the funds.
McAfee’s lawsuit was dropped after he publicly apologized for telling viewers of his popular TV show that Favre was “stealing from the poor people of Mississippi.”
Favre is currently being heard by the House Finance Committee, asking whether “restrictions” should be placed on the distribution of the “Temporary Assistance for Needy Families” funds.
During his NFL career, the quarterback played for the Atlanta Falcons, Green Bay Packers, New York Jets and Minnesota Vikings.
In 1997, he won the Super Bowl with the Packers and in 2016 he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.