Former NFL quarterback Brett Favre has publicly shared that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, yet not everyone is extending their sympathies to the Hall of Famer.
Favre, who had a remarkable 20-year career primarily with the Green Bay Packers, also faced controversy in 2008 during his tenure with the New York Jets.
In that year, Jenn Sterger, who was a reporter and host for the Jets, claimed she received inappropriate messages, including explicit texts, photos, and voicemails from Favre during his time with the team.
It appears that Sterger still harbors resentment towards Favre, as she took to social media to respond to the news of his diagnosis. This occurred amidst discussions about Favre testifying at a congressional hearing regarding welfare misappropriation and reform (according to the New York Post).
In her Instagram story, she stated: “PSA: Please don’t send me links to it. I’ve seen it. I can read. I don’t wish bad things on anyone, but I know Karma never forgets an address. Imagine being diagnosed with such a terrible disease and not having the resources to fight it because some Hall-of-Fame quarterback stole it?”
This comment refers to Favre’s alleged involvement in a Mississippi welfare scandal, where he reportedly misused welfare funds for personal projects. He revealed his diagnosis during his testimony at the hearing.
JUST IN: Legendary NFL Quarterback Brett Favre tells Congress he was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, says “it’s too late for me.”
The comment came during a congressional hearing on federal welfare reform.
“Sadly, I also lost an investment in a company that I… pic.twitter.com/3eMJRZwcCc
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) September 24, 2024
During his appearance before the House Ways and Means Committee, the 54-year-old Favre stated, “Sadly, I also lost an investment in a company [Prevacus] that I believed was developing a groundbreaking concussion drug I thought would help others. 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’s diagnosis is likely linked to the head trauma he sustained throughout his career, during which he was sacked 525 times, and he has previously mentioned the possibility of having experienced over 1,000 concussions in his life.
Parkinson’s is characterized as a degenerative nervous system disorder, but Favre has expressed optimism, noting that it was detected early. He shared a message on Instagram, thanking those who have offered their prayers.
“My wife, family, and friends have been supportive and I want to thank them for being there for me,” Favre stated. “To my fans and those wishing well — thank you all for the love.”
Following the texting scandal in 2008 involving Sterger, the NFL launched an investigation into her allegations in 2010, but ultimately could not determine if Favre had breached the league’s workplace conduct policy. However, he did acknowledge sending her voicemails, resulting in a $50,000 fine for not cooperating with the inquiry.
Favre’s impressive stats during his career place him fourth all-time in passing yards (71,838) and touchdown passes (508), though he also holds the record for the most interceptions thrown (366) in NFL history.
Image Source: Jenn Sterger @ Instagram
