NFL Hall of Famer Brett Favre has revealed he was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 54.
The Packers legend revealed the shocking health update while speaking at a Congressional hearing on welfare misspending and reform.
While testifying, Favre read from pre-written notes and began speaking about the now-defunct drug company Prevacus, in which he was the top outside investor.
‘Sadly, I also lost an investment in a company that I believed was developing a breakthrough concussion drug I thought would help others,’ he said.
‘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.’
Favre – who played in the NFL for 20 years – has previously spoken openly about suffering ‘thousands’ of concussions on the football field.
Last year, Favre became embroiled in the largest case of public fraud 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 $77million in welfare funds means for needy families was instead funneled to the rich and powerful.
Favre, who denies any wrongdoing and has not been criminally charged, repaid $1.1million across two payments in 2020 and 2021, but is still being pursued for $727,000 in interest by Mississippi State Auditor Shad White.
