Former Vikings QB Tommy Kramer Reveals Dementia Diagnosis.

Read about former Vikings QB Tommy Kramer’s heartfelt announcement revealing his dementia diagnosis. Stay informed with the latest news.

Former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tommy Kramer, known for his resilience and passion on the field, has revealed that he was diagnosed with dementia over a year ago. The 69-year-old shared his diagnosis after Brett Favre’s recent disclosure of Parkinson’s disease during a congressional hearing, feeling it was the right time to address his health publicly.

Kramer, who was a Pro Bowler in 1986, received a prognosis of 2 to 10 years from his doctors, but he remains optimistic. A recent checkup indicated that his condition hasn’t progressed, which has given him hope. In his announcement, he urged people not to feel sorry for him, saying, “Please, no sympathy. I’ve lived a great life and wouldn’t change a thing.” He added, “Nobody wanted to win more than me, and I never gave up. That’s exactly how I’ll approach this battle.”

While expressing gratitude for the NFL’s support and efforts to protect current players, Kramer also highlighted the financial struggles that many former players face when dealing with serious illnesses. Although the NFL helps cover medical bills and therapy not covered by his personal insurance, he noted that many of his former teammates need more assistance. Kramer hopes to raise awareness so that the NFL can better support its past players and ensure future players are protected.

Kramer’s football journey is one to be admired. He made a name for himself as a Texas high school football legend and a College Football Hall of Famer from Rice University before being drafted 27th overall by the Minnesota Vikings in 1977. Stepping into the shoes of the legendary Fran Tarkenton, Kramer spent eight seasons as the Vikings’ starting quarterback. His career peak came in 1986, when he led the NFL in passer rating and earned the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award.

Kramer eventually lost his starting position to Wade Wilson and finished his NFL career with the New Orleans Saints in 1990. Despite the challenges he now faces with dementia, his love for football and its fans remains strong. Kramer has vowed to continue traveling to small towns to meet fans as long as he is able. In his words, “Football is the life we chose, and sometimes things like this happen. As long as I’m able, I’ll continue to meet the fans.”

Kramer closed his message with a sentiment that speaks to his outlook on life: “We’re not here for a long time; we’re here for a good time.” With the same fighting spirit that defined his playing days, Tommy Kramer faces this new challenge head-on, grateful for the support he’s received and focused on making the most of the time ahead.