Former Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre revealed on Tuesday that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease while testifying before Congress about allegations of misusing taxpayer money. Favre was accused of improperly funneling public money to his alma mater and his own benefit. He mentioned losing an investment in a company that promised a breakthrough concussion drug, which he hoped would help others. The doctor running the company was found guilty of misusing public funds. Parkinson’s is a brain disorder that causes involuntary movements and worsens over time.
A study published last year found that playing football was linked to a higher risk of Parkinson’s. Favre, who spent 20 seasons in the NFL, was in Washington to address questions about receiving money from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. He was accused of receiving funds for speaking engagements he never completed and lobbying for money to go to volleyball facilities at his alma mater. Favre denied any wrongdoing and claimed he only found out later that the funds were from taxpayers.
Despite not facing criminal charges, Favre has agreed to repay some of the money. U.S. Rep. Linda Sanchez criticized Favre for taking advantage of vulnerable individuals and called for bipartisan TANF reforms. Overall, Favre’s testimony shed light on his Parkinson’s diagnosis and the allegations surrounding his use of public funds.
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