Brett Favre Reveals He Has Parkinson’s Disease
Hall of Fame Quarterback Announces Diagnosis on Capitol Hill
Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre announced Tuesday he was “recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease” while testifying on Capitol Hill at a hearing about alleged welfare misspending.
Favre, a retired NFL quarterback who played for the Green Bay Packers from 1992 – 2007, revealed the news Tuesday morning while appearing before a Republican-led House committee on welfare abuses. He is currently being sued by the state Mississippi over the receipt of funds, via speaking fees, that had been intended for poor women and children.
Favre’s Testimony
In his opening statement before the committee Tuesday, Favre said he was the victim of unscrupulous public officials and he never knew he was receiving welfare funds.
“Sadly, I also lost an investment in a company that I believed was developing a breakthrough concussion drug I thought would help others, and I’m sure you’ll understand why it’s too late for me because I’ve recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s,” Favre said. “This is also a cause dear to my heart. Recently, the doctor, running the company pleaded guilty to taking TANF money for his own use.”
Brett Favre and the Mississippi Welfare Funds Scandal
Mississippi has ranked among the poorest states in the U.S. for decades, but only a fraction of its federal welfare money has been going to families. Instead, the Mississippi Department of Human Services allowed well-connected people to waste tens of millions of welfare dollars from 2016 to 2019, according to Mississippi Auditor Shad White and state and federal prosecutors.
Favre is not facing any criminal charges, but he is among more than three dozen defendants in a civil lawsuit the state filed in 2022. The suit demands repayment of money that was misspent through TANF.
Background of the Scandal
White, a Republican, said in 2020 that Favre had improperly received $1.1 million in speaking fees from a nonprofit organization that spent welfare with approval from the state Department of Human Services. White said Favre did not show up for the speeches. Although Favre repaid the $1.1 million, he still owes nearly $730,000 in interest, White said.
The TANF money was to go toward a volleyball arena at the University of Southern Mississippi. Favre agreed to lead fundraising efforts for the facility at his alma mater, where his daughter started playing on the volleyball team in 2017.
Text Messages Reveal Favre’s Knowledge
Court records show that on Dec. 27, 2017, Favre texted the center’s director, Nancy New: “Nancy Santa came today and dropped some money off (two smiling emojis) thank you my goodness thank you.”
“Yes he did,” New responded. “He felt you had been pretty good this year!”
Conclusion
Favre’s revelation of his Parkinson’s diagnosis has sparked sympathy and support from fans and fellow athletes. The former quarterback’s appearance on Capitol Hill also highlighted the ongoing controversy surrounding the misuse of welfare funds in Mississippi. As the investigation continues, Favre remains under scrutiny for his role in the scandal.
FAQs
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. It is characterized by the progressive loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.
What is TANF?
TANF stands for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, a federal program that provides financial assistance to low-income families.
What is the Mississippi welfare funds scandal?
The Mississippi welfare funds scandal refers to the alleged misuse of TANF funds by well-connected individuals, including Brett Favre, for personal gain. The scandal has led to a civil lawsuit and criminal charges against several individuals involved.
Has Brett Favre been charged with a crime?
No, Brett Favre has not been charged with a crime in connection with the Mississippi welfare funds scandal. However, he is one of the defendants in a civil lawsuit filed by the state of Mississippi.
