Bills legend QB Jim Kelly discloses he had a stroke

Jim Kelly’s Health Update at Bills’ Stadium Ceremony

Buffalo Bills’ legend and Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly recently shared some concerning news about his health.

During a ribbon-cutting event for the new Bills stadium, Kelly disclosed that he had a stroke this past spring, which led to a hospital stay of several days. However, he’s currently on the mend.

“About a month and a half ago, I had a slight setback,” Kelly mentioned to the media. “But I feel good now. My eyesight isn’t that great, and my hearing isn’t great either, but that’s just part of life.”

He continued, “It’s age-related, yet I’m feeling great. The scans are clean, everything’s going well. Everything’s going great.”

At 66, Kelly has had his share of health challenges, including multiple cancer diagnoses. Back in 2013, he underwent surgery to remove squamous cell carcinoma from his upper jaw, and he was later declared cancer-free.

Just a year afterward, he faced another cancer diagnosis in his sinus area and had to go through chemotherapy.

His most recent battle with cancer was in 2018 when he underwent surgery to remove oral cancer and reconstruct his upper jaw.

Before retiring in 1997, Kelly accumulated impressive stats, throwing for over 35,000 yards and 237 touchdowns in his 11 seasons with the Bills. He was part of the team that reached the Super Bowl four consecutive times between 1991 and 1994, albeit with an unfortunate record of 0-4.

In 2002, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame.

On a brighter note, Kelly expressed excitement about watching games at the new Highmark Stadium with his grandson this upcoming fall.

He mentioned his anticipation for the Bills’ home opener against the Lions on September 17, saying, “It’s going to be special, not just for the players, but the fans. Just imagine how crazy and wild and loud they’re going to be. I look forward to seeing how loud this stadium is. From what I’ve heard, it’s going to be incredible, but I don’t expect anything less.”