After Brett Favre revealed he is currently battling Parkinson's disease, former Pro Bowl quarterback Tommy Kramer announced Wednesday that he has dementia.
Kramer, 69, said on social media that he was diagnosed with cognitive impairment during a visit to the Cleveland Clinic last year.
The 14-year NFL player said Favre's announcement at a congressional hearing on Tuesday prompted him to make his own statement.
He added that doctors had given him between two and 10 years to live, but that a recent check-up showed his condition had “not progressed.”
“I've had a great life and I wouldn't change a thing,” Kramer wrote. “No one wants to win more than I do and I've never given up, and that's exactly how I intend to approach this fight.”
Kramer added that he understands the risks of playing football, but would like to see the NFL do more to help former players who are in similar situations and can't pay for medical bills out of pocket.
“I know there are players who played with me who need all the help they can get,” he wrote. “Unfortunately, the NFL will try to help with my medical expenses and treatment costs, which are not covered by my personal insurance. I want to raise some awareness so the NFL can help other players and future players who are battling the same illness as me.”
Kramer was the Vikings' first-round pick in 1977 and played 13 seasons with Minnesota, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1986.
His 24,775 passing yards and 15 fourth-quarter comebacks are second in franchise history, while his 159 touchdowns through the air are third.
