Tedy Bruschi, former NFL linebacker, has suffered another stroke, according to his charity, Tedy’s Team, which raises awareness of stroke and heart disease.
On Friday, his charity said in a statement, “Yesterday afternoon, Tedy had a stroke, known as a TIA. He recognized his warning signs immediately: arm weakness, face drooping and speech difficulties. Tedy is recovering well and would like to thank the nurses, doctors and staff at Sturdy Memorial Hospital for all they have done. Tedy and his family thank you for your ongoing encouragement, and kindly ask for privacy at this time.”
Sturdy Memorial Hospital is in Attleboro, Massachusetts, home of the New England Patriots, for which he played his entire 13-year NFL career.
“TIA stands for transient ischemic attack and is considered a mini-stroke but also a ‘major warning’ that can foreshadow a full-blown stroke. TIA is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. Since it doesn’t cause permanent damage, it’s often ignored,” according to the American Stroke Association.
The 46-year-old suffered a mild stroke in February 2005, just a few weeks after his team had defeated the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl XXXIX. However, he recovered and played in nine games during that season.
After his first stroke, doctors found that he had a hole in his heart, which contributed to his stroke.
In October 2005, Bruschi told The Washington Post’s Mark Maske, “The minute I was told I had a stroke, it was never, ‘Woe is me.’” It was, ‘What do I have to do to get better?’ … I would hope I’m educating everyone about stroke. I feel like I’m the face of stroke.” Bruschi established Tedy’s Team in 2005 to raise awareness of stroke and heart disease.
