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    Denis Law’s health battle with dementia left Man Utd icon losing memory & leaning on ‘strong’ wife before death at 84

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    MANCHESTER United legend Denis Law faced a tough battle with Alzheimer’s and dementia in the years before his death on Friday, aged 84.Denis revealed his dementia diagnosis in August 2021 and remained committed to bringing more awareness to the disease until his death.Denis Law has died aged 84Credit: Rex FeaturesDenis Law with his wife Diana at the HMV Football Extravaganza at The Park Lane HiltonCredit: GettyDenis found his fame playing for Manchester United and ScotlandHe and his wife Diana spoke out about the challenges of caring for a partner with dementia as part of an Alzheimer’s Society campaign in March 2023.Their moving joint testimony read: “When you get married, you never imagine that decades after making those vows of ‘in sickness and in health’ that you will end up testing them to the limits with dementia.“We tackle everything together. But living with dementia means Diana has to take responsibility a bit more now although we still come as a team of course. It’s a change for both of us.“It goes to show that dementia can affect anyone, no matter who you are. READ MORE ON DENIS”I’m extremely lucky to have enjoyed such an amazing career in football. “Not many people have had the experiences I have had – including winning the World Cup! I have been shown such love from the public.”Denis was open about his diagnosis from the beginning, and recognised that his remaining days would be “hard, demanding, painful and ever changing”.He said at the time: “This will not be an easy journey especially for the people who love you the most.Most read in Football”I recognise how my brain is deteriorating and how my memory evades me when I don’t want it to and how this causes me distress in situations that are beyond my control.”I do understand what is happening and that is why I want to address my situation now whilst I am able, because I know there will be days when I don’t understand and I hate the thought of that right now.”Former Man Utd footballer Denis Law looks back on his incredible career in Sky doc The Law Man Denis joined a string of other footballers diagnosed with the degenerative brain disease, including his former United teammate Sir Bobby Charlton.A statement from the Law family on Friday night read: “It is with a heavy heart that we tell you our father Denis Law has sadly passed away. “He fought a tough battle but finally he is now at peace.””We would like to thank everyone who contributed to his well-being and care, past and much more recently. Denis Law and Sir Rod Stewart in 1998Credit: LWTLaw was the last surviving member of the Red Devils’ holy trinityCredit: Getty”We know how much people supported and loved him and that love was always appreciated and made the difference. Thank you.”Law started his career at Huddersfield Town, had two spells at Manchester City and played for Torino in Italy.But it was at Old Trafford from 1962-73 where he made his name scoring 237 goals in 404 games.He won two titles with United and the FA Cup and helped them to the 1968 European Cup Final where they beat Benfica although missed out on the game due to injury.Sir Bobby Charlton, Law and George Best were integral as the Red Devils become the first English side to win the European Cup.Denis’s old club issued a statement after his death that said: “Everyone at Manchester United is mourning the loss of Denis Law, the King of the Stretford End, who has passed away, aged 84. “With 237 goals in 404 appearances, he will always be celebrated as one of the club’s greatest and most beloved players.”The ultimate goal-scorer, his flair, spirit and love for the game made him the hero of a generation. “Our deepest condolences go out to Denis’s family and many friends. His memory will live on forever more.”The recognition of a link between football and dementia has been growing ever since the death of West Brom striker Jeff Astle in 2002.After his death, it was confirmed that he was the first British footballer known to have died as a result of repeatedly heading a football.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe inquest into his death therefore recorded a verdict of “death by industrial disease”.A study in 2019 found that professional footballers are three-and-a-half times more likely to die from dementia than people of the same age range in the general population.He was diagnosed with dementia a year after his United teammate Sir Bobby Charlton (left)Credit: GettyDenis Law, 1940-2025Credit: X/ManUtd More

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      Former Premier League star Dean Windass, 55, suffering from dementia as ex-Man Utd ace reveals diagnosis live on BBC

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      DEAN WINDASS has been diagnosed with dementia aged 55, Manchester United legend David May revealed on TV.And now David Beckham is calling on football’s authorities to do more to support players with the neurodegenerative disease. Dean Windass has been diagnosed with Stage 2 dementia aged 55Credit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun GlasgowWindass scored the winning goal for Hull to fire them into the Premier League in 2008Credit: Getty Images – GettyDavid May revealed the health update on BBC Breakfast with permission from WindassCredit: BBCWindass earned legendary status at boyhood club Hull and also played in the Premier League with Bradford and Middlesbrough.He famously fired the Tigers into the top flight with his 2008 play-off final wondergoal volley aged 39.Windass initially retired in 2009 before brief comebacks over the next three years.But now still only in his mid-50s, he has recently received the shock news on his health. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMay, 54, appeared on BBC Breakfast on Friday morning alongside Nobby Stiles’ son John.With permission from Windass, the former Manchester United and Blackburn defender said: “I only spoke to Dean Windass yesterday, ex-professional footballer.”I asked Deano how he is.”He’s been diagnosed with Stage 2 dementia.Most read in Football”He’s the same age as me and he’s worried sick of how it’s going to be in the future for him.”The news about Windass came as a shock to football fans.But May reassured followers on X he had been given the green light from his friend directly to publicise the update.Old Trafford hero May tweeted: “FYI I spoke to @DWindass10 last night and asked his permission.”He was 100 per cent behind me mentioning that he had been diagnosed with stage 2 dementia.”Deano has just done an article for a national newspaper which will be published soon.. share the love.”Windass retweeted May’s post and another message of support which read: “I’m so sorry to hear that Deano @DWindass10. My mum had Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. “Keep doing what you’re doing mate, stay active body and mind my friend and of course you’ve got the Yorkshire grit, fighting spirit and great support.”Dean Windass’s career statsDean Windass had a prolific career, spanning nine clubs.Here are his career stats:Hull CityFirst spell: 1991–1995
      Appearances: 166Goals: 57Second spell: 2007 (loan)
      Appearances: 18Goals: 8Third spell: 2007–2009
      Appearances: 61Goals: 12AberdeenYears: 1995–1998
      Appearances: 78Goals: 21Oxford UnitedYears: 1998–1999
      Appearances: 41Goals: 15Bradford CityFirst spell: 1999–2001
      Appearances: 77Goals: 22Second spell: 2003–2007
      Appearances: 133Goals: 56MiddlesbroughYears: 2001–2003
      Appearances: 37Goals: 6Sheffield Wednesday (loan)
      Years: 2001–2002
      Appearances: 9Goals: 3Sheffield United (loan)
      Years: 2002
      Appearances: 9Goals: 3Oldham Athletic (loan)
      Years: 2002–2003
      Appearances: 14Goals: 3Bradford Park AvenueYears: 2010
      Appearances: 1Goals: 0Then the ex-Hull forward – dad of Sheffield Wednesday star Josh Windass – posted a video from his car smiling and miming along to Glen Campbell’s song Rhinestone Cowboy.He captioned the clip: “Just got to keep smiling and trying to help people.”Windass then added in another tweet: “Seriously I am ok was delighted to find out I had a brain. Just hope other families get the help they want for the people they have lost.”Windass has previously been open about his financial and mental health struggles since retiring from football, including attempts to take his own life. May was discussing the additional risk professional footballers have of developing dementia – with evidence from studies showing they are 3.46 times more likely to do so than the general public.He added: “Over my career, I probably headed the football about 20,000 times in total.”It’s only coming to light now.Is it ageing or dementia?Dementia – the most common form of which is Alzheimer’s – comes on slowly over time.As the disease progresses, symptoms can become more severe. But at the beginning, the symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for normal memory issues related to ageing. The US National Institute on Aging gives some examples of what is considered normal forgetfulness in old age, and dementia disease.You can refer to these above.For example, it is normal for an ageing person to forget which word to use from time-to-time, but difficulting having conversation would be more indicative of dementia.Katie Puckering, Head of Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Information Services team, previously told The Sun: “We quite commonly as humans put our car keys somewhere out of the ordinary and it takes longer for us to find them.“As you get older, it takes longer for you to recall, or you really have to think; What was I doing? Where was I? What distracted me? Was it that I had to let the dog out? And then you find the keys by the back door.“That process of retrieving the information is just a bit slower in people as they age.“In dementia, someone may not be able to recall that information and what they did when they came into the house.“What may also happen is they might put it somewhere it really doesn’t belong. For example, rather than putting the milk back in the fridge, they put the kettle in the fridge.””I’d like to know where I’ll be in ten years’ time, will I have the care from the governing bodies, PFA, for funding that these families are not currently getting?”It’s worrying. I’m worried, of course I am.”I’ve got a family to look after and I don’t want my children looking after me day in day out.”Care does cost a lot of money. Is there enough to care for future generations? “One in three [footballers have the] possibility of getting dementia.”The message needs to get out there.”We need the football family to come together and allocate resources to help address the tragedy of these devastating diseasesDavid BeckhamFormer England captain Beckham joined forces with fellow footballers May, Gary Pallister, Peter Reid, Gary McAllister, Jan Molby and others plus politicians and medical experts in Manchester to show his support for the Football Families for Justice campaign.FFJ is a voluntary organisation calling on the Government to amend the Football Governance Bill and introduce a mandatory financial support scheme funded by football authorities and the PFA for players and their families.Beckham said in a video message: “As a young player at Manchester United, I was privileged to be guided and mentored by [ex-coaches] Eric Harrison, Nobby Stiles and my dad’s hero Sir Bobby Charlton.”Like thousands of ex-players, all three died from neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia. “I want to add my support to the work of John Stiles and Football Families for Justice in their campaign to meet the needs of those affected. “We need the football family to come together and allocate resources to help address the tragedy of these devastating diseases. READ MORE SUN STORIES”Let’s ensure that victims and their families are treated with kindness, respect and best-in-class support. “I hope you will join us in ensuring a better future for our former colleagues – the many ex-professional footballers who have brought so much joy to so many fans and for their loved ones.”Windass is an icon for boyhood club HullCredit: Action Images – ReutersHe was 39 when he enjoyed his Wembley magic moment against Bristol CityCredit: GettyWindass retweeted May’s post and then shared a video miming along to a song in his carCredit: X @DWindass10David Beckham joined various footballers to support the Football Families for Justice campaignCredit: GettyDavid May estimates he headed footballs approximately 20,000 timesCredit: PABobby Charlton and Nobby Stiles died from neurodegenerative diseasesCredit: Rex More

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      I 100 per cent fear getting dementia but have ways to try to fight it off, admits Man Utd icon Sir Alex Ferguson, 82

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON has revealed that he is “100 per cent” worried about getting dementia.The former Manchester United boss, 82, also lifted the lid on how he misses life in the Old Trafford dugout in a rare extended interview.Sir Alex Ferguson revealed how he sharpens his mind amid fears he’ll lose his memoryCredit: GettyThe legendary manager began working with a charity before Bobby Charlton succumbed to dementia last yearEngland heroes Nobby Stiles, Sir Bobby Charlton and his brother Jack Charlton were all diagnosed before their deaths.In an interview about his work with a dementia charity, Fergie was asked if the disease frightens him.He told BBC Breakfast: “I’m 82, obviously I worry about it. Generally my memory is quite good, pray the lord and touch wood it will stay that way. “But I worry about it, 100 per cent. I would be lying if I said anything different.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSF”I read a lot, I do quizzes a lot and I think that helps. “You have those YouTube quizzes, 100 questions, and I think if I don’t get to 70 per cent I’m struggling.”Several other footballers face an ongoing battle with dementia including ex-Middlesbrough striker Alan Peacock, 86.Sir Alex suffered a brain haemorrhage back in 2018, after which he underwent successful emergency surgery at Salford Royal Hospital.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHis late wife Lady Cathy, who he described as his “bedrock”, died aged 84 last October following a serious illness.United hero Denis Law suffers from Alzheimer’s at the age of 84, having admitted a few years back that the condition had caused him anger, frustration, confusion and distress.Fergie retired from management in 2013 following a 27-year spell with United.Sir Alex Ferguson booked me a flight home from my holiday and hauled me back to Man Utd – I hadn’t done anything wrongThe fierce Scotsman until this day still also regularly attends United games both home and away.On missing the glory days, Fergie added: “I have been retired 11 years now so you find a way of adjusting. Yeah, I miss it sometimes. “I think the first year after retirement, I went to the European final and I said to Cathy ‘this is what I miss’ – big games, the European games.”So then I went to most of the European finals because I find something I can relate to, something I would liked to have done every day.”Because these are the big events that United should always be involved in.”He was speaking as part of National Playlist Day, which is used to celebrate the power of personalised music playlist for those living with dementia.One of the songs on Sir Alex’s playlist is My Own True Love by Margaret Whiting, the theme from the 1939 film Gone with the Wind.It reminds him of his beloved wife, Cathy, who he met in 1964 while working at a typewriter factory. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe took United into four Champions League finals after claiming the European Cup Winners Cup with Aberdeen in 1983 – a feat that first drew him to Old Trafford chiefs.The legendary boss won 13 Prem titles, five FA Cups and two Champions Leagues during his Red Devils reign. More

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      Why don’t England players have names on the back of their shirts against Belgium?  

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      THE names of England players’ shirts will disappear as they return after half time against Belgium on Tuesday night.The Three Lions will play without names on their shirts during the second half of the fixture at Wembley Stadium. England players will NOT have their names on shirts in the second half against BelgiumEngland boss Gareth Southgate will be hoping to bounce back against the Red Devils after a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Brazil on Saturday. Why are England shirts nameless against Belgium?The match has been dedicated to Alzheimer’s Society International as a part of England’s Football official charity partnership.With memory loss being the most common symptom associated with Alzheimer’s, the removal of players shirts will draw attention to how people with dementia lose their memory. The nameless shirts were originally shown at the first Alzheimer’s Society international in 2022, where England secured a win against Switzerland. This is being repeated at the match against Belgium to recognise that football should be unforgettable. After the match, the shirts will be donated by the England squad and auctioned to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Society research into early diagnosis. What’s been said?Alzheimer’s Society CEO, Katy Lee said: “We hope this striking gesture with the players’ shirts will once again get fans across the country talking, and thinking about the signs and symptoms of dementia.“By using football to shine a spotlight and increase awareness of dementia symptoms, we hope to not only encourage fans to donate towards our early diagnosis research, but also to support their loved ones just as much as they support their football team.”Most read in FootballEngland kit rowThe new England kit has been at the centre of controversy after manufacturer Nike changed the colour of the St George’s Flag on the back of the collar.Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer – as well as a host of England legends – slammed the decision.Nike later apologised, stating “it was never our intention to offend”.The American company and The Football Association, who were also slammed for the £124.99 price tag, also stated there are no plans to change the kit ahead of Euro 2024. More

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      Bobby Charlton’s health battle after Man Utd legend’s dementia diagnosis – the same illness that claimed brother Jack

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      SIR Bobby Charlton fought a health battle after being diagnosed with dementia, the same illness that claimed his brother Jack.The England and Manchester United football legend, who has died aged 86, had been suffering for several years.
      Sir Bobby Charlton fought a health battle after being diagnosed with dementiaCredit: Paul Edwards – The Sun
      Bobby’s brother Jack (M) died of dementia in July 2020, World Cup winner Nobby Stiles (L) died that OctoberCredit: Getty
      When Jack died aged 85 in July 2020, Bobby himself was in ill health and unable to attend the funeral.
      By November of that year, Bobby’s wife Lady Norma Charlton confirmed his dementia diagnoses.
      The couple hoped going public “could help” others affected.
      Bobby’s diagnosis reignited debate within the game about the link between heading the ball and brain disease.
      Read More on Bobby Charlton
      Charlton was one of several World Cup winners to be diagnosed with dementia, including Jack.
      Ray Wilson was the first to succumb to dementia in July 2018 and Martin Peters died of the disease a year later.
      Nobby Stiles, famed for dancing with the Jules Rimet Trophy in one hand and his dentures in the other, died in October 2020 of dementia.
      Sir Geoff Hurst, the only surviving member of the World Cup winning team, said in 2020: “It’s just been a nightmare year.”
      Most read in Football
      Dementia is an umbrella term that covers a lot of different conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease.
      Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most common form of dementia, is responsible for around two thirds of the cases of dementia in the UK, which is why people sometimes get confused. 
      Both diseases affect millions of people all over the world and are a leading cause of death globally.
      There are around 944,000 people with dementia in the UK and this number is expected to increase, Alzheimer’s Research UK said in May. More

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      Man Utd legend Denis Law reveals he is suffering from dementia aged 81 in emotional statement with ‘memory evading’

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      DENIS LAW has revealed he is suffering from Alzheimer’s in an emotional statement about his condition. The legendary Manchester United and Scotland goalscorer says he has experienced anger, frustration, confusion and distress due to the condition, which he believes was not helped by the Covid-19 lockdown.
      Scottish football legend Denis Law has revealed he is suffering from Alzheimer’sCredit: Getty
      The 81-year-old achieved icon status during his playing days for Manchester UnitedCredit: Alamy
      Denis Law poses alongside fellow United legends and former team-mates Bobby Charlton and the late George BestCredit: PA
      Denis Law is the third highest-scorer in Manchester United’s historyCredit: Rex
      There has been much research and debate into how much heading the ball has led to Alzheimer’s for a number of ex players something Law also makes reference to. 
      Law, 81, said: “I am at the point where I feel I want to be open about my condition. I have been diagnosed with ‘mixed dementia’, which is more than one type of dementia, in my case this being Alzheimer’s and Vascular dementia.
      “This has been an extremely difficult year for everyone and the long periods of isolation have certainly not helped.
      “It is an incredibly challenging and problematic disease and I have witnessed many friends go through this.
      “You hope that it won’t happen to you, even make jokes about it whilst ignoring the early signs because you don’t want it to be true. You get angry, frustrated, confused and then worried, worried for your family, as they will be the ones dealing with it.
      “However the time has come to tackle this head on, excuse the pun. I recognise how my brain is deteriorating and how my memory evades me when I don’t want it to and how this causes me distress in situations that are beyond my control.

      Law says he has experienced anger, frustration, confusion and distress due to the conditionCredit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      The ex-striker began his legendary career at Huddersfield in 1955Credit: Getty
      Best, Charlton and Law helped United win the 1968 European CupCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      They now have a statue of them outside of Old TraffordCredit: Getty
      “I do understand what is happening and that is why I want to address my situation now whilst I am able, because I know there will be days when I don’t understand and I hate the thought of that right now.
      “In the height of the pandemic I said I hoped that if one positive was to come out of it, it would be that it would make people kinder to each other, so that’s what I am hoping for now.”
      Law started his career at Huddersfield, had two spells at Manchester City and played for Torino in Italy.
      But it was at Old Trafford from 1962-73 where he made his name scoring 237 goals in 404 games.
      He won two titles with United and the FA Cup and helped them to the 1968 European Cup Final where they beat Benfica although missed out on the game due to injury.
      Law said that he wanted to make this statement about his condition now while he felt still able to and said that he does not want people to feel sad for him as he has felt ‘lucky’ to have had the experiences in life he has.
      He said: “I don’t want people to be saddened if I forget places, people or dates because you need to remember I enjoyed all those memories and I am lucky to have experienced what I have in my life…a loving and supportive family, a great career doing what I loved and getting paid to do it and lifelong friends.”

      Law, who also scored 30 goals in 55 games for Scotland, apologised to autograph hunters still wanting his signature saying he was simply unable to sign things anymore.
      He said: “I have good days and bad days and aim to take each day as it comes adjusting my lifestyle accordingly.
      “I hung up my football boots a long time ago  and now it’s time to put my signing days behind me too, so apologies to anyone who has sent me anything but I am just not able.”
      Law was in attendance at last Saturday’s thrilling 5-1 win over Leeds and says he hopes to continue watching United who he clearly believes are on the up again.
      He said: “I am trying to be positive and determined to continue watching my club, Manchester United at Old Trafford, hopefully this will be a season of success and I am excited by the new signings that Ole and the club have made. 
      “Also where possible I would like to continue my involvement with the ‘Denis Law Legacy Trust’, the work the staff and volunteers do in the community is amazing and it makes a real difference.
      What is Alzheimer’s disease, how can I see the signs and symptoms?The damage caused to the brain by Alzheimer’s disease causes the symptoms commonly associated with dementia.
      Indeed, it is the most common trigger for dementia.
      Alzheimer’s disease is named after the doctor who first described it in medical literature, Alois Alzheimer.
      It is physical disease that affects the brain, and affects more than 520,000 people in the UK.
      A hallmark of the disease is the build-up of amyloid beta proteins in the brain, to cause plaques.
      This results in the loss of connections between nerve cells in the brain, and ultimately the death of those cells and a loss of brain tissue.
      Those people living with Alzheimer’s also have a shortage of some key chemicals in the brain, which help transmit messages.
      As the disease progresses and begins to interfere with a person’s life they may:

      lose common items including keys and glasses around the house
      struggle to find the word they are looking for in conversation
      forget recent conversations or events
      get lost in a familiar place, or while on a familiar journey
      forget important anniversaries, birthdays or appointments

      “I know the road ahead will be hard, demanding, painful and ever changing and so ask for understanding and patience as this will not be an easy journey especially for the people who love you the most.”
      Denis’s daughter Di who previously worked for United as the Chief Press Officer is doing the ‘Thames Bridges Trek’ on September 11 to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society.
      Law said: “As a family, we have been offered support by Alzheimer’s Society and have chosen to fundraise for the charity to help support its crucial work.
      “Alzheimer’s Society’s services have never been in more need, used over 5.5 million times since March 2020, and are a lifeline to thousands of families who are also facing a dementia diagnosis.
      “The charity is also doing amazing work with the sports industry, with its Sport United Against Dementia campaign, which I fully support. This really could make the biggest difference to former players, players, and fans alike. Thank you.”
      Following the legend’s announcement, United tweeted: “Everybody is with you in this battle, Denis.
      “We are in admiration of your openness, your bravery and your humility to be open about your dementia diagnosis.”
      Denis Law, pictured watching the recent friendly with Everton, was also at Old Trafford to see United thump Leeds 5-1Credit: Getty
      Denis Law poses with his daughter Di, who went on to work for United as the Chief Press OfficerCredit: Paul Cousans
      Kate Lee, chief executive at Alzheimer’s Society said: “We have offered support to Denis Law and the whole family.
      “We are incredibly thankful to the family for choosing to raise vital funds for us and hope Denis’s bravery in coming forward will encourage many others to seek the help they need, for which we are hugely grateful.
      “We’ve seen too many sporting heroes impacted by the condition, which is why our Sport United Against Dementia campaign is needed now more than ever.
      “It’s never been more important to fund crucial research and our vital support services and ensure that right now, past and present players, as well as fans, know our services are here and can get the dedicated dementia support they deserve.”
      Anyone wishing to donate can go to this link www.justgiving.com/thelawman
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford
      Denis Law scored 30 goals in 55 games for ScotlandCredit: SNS
      Ronaldo the Law-breaker More

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      England World Cup hero Sir Geoff Hurst pays tribute to lifelong friend Sir Bobby Charlton after dementia diagnosis

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      ENGLAND World Cup hero Sir Geoff Hurst has paid tribute to lifelong friend Sir Bobby Charlton following his shock dementia diagnosis, as well as late teammate Nobby Stiles.
      The sporting icon opened up after 48 hours of tragedy for the triumphant 1966 squad following Nobby’s passing from prostate cancer and dementia on Friday, aged 78, and Sir Bobby’s brave revelation on Sunday.

      Sir Geoff Hurst, left, pictured with the late England goalkeeper Gordon BanksCredit: Paul Tonge – The Sun

      Sir Bobby Charlton with his wife Lady Norma, who revealed the England icon’s dementia diagnosis Credit: Getty – Contributor

      Speaking for the first time about Sir Bobby’s health battle, Sir Geoff, who works closely with the Alzheimer’s Society, told The Sun: “Dementia is a cause that is very close to my heart having seen it affect my 1966 World Cup-winning teammates.
      “I was deeply saddened by the recent passing of Nobby and the announcement that Sir Bobby, has been diagnosed with the condition. I played with Nobby for England under 17s and under 23s as well as the national team so we go back a long way.
      “I’m also sending my thoughts and best wishes to Sir Bobby and his wife Lady Norma and want to thank them for shining a spotlight on dementia, so that other families don’t feel alone during this difficult time.
      “The England team of 1966 had a special relationship that will always remain special because of what we achieved as a group of people. That was down to our camaraderie and I hope that people across the country will embrace that team spirit and come out in force to unite against dementia.”

      Nobby Stiles passed away after suffering from prostate cancer and dementia on Friday, aged 78Credit: Getty – Contributor
      In a sad twist of fate, Sir Geoff, 78, recalled that one of his final meetings with Nobby, who played every minute of England’s 1966 campaign and was made in MBE in 2000, was at the funeral of their teammate Martin Peters, who died in December 2019 aged 76 following a long battle with Alzheimer’s.
      He said: “I think the last time we were in touch was sadly at Martin’s funeral where his wife Kay was there and his son, so we spent a fair bit of time with them afterwards having a glass of wine. It’s tough losing these players. I know it’s been very difficult for his family.”
      In July, Sir Geoff, 78, told The Sun of his wish for Sir Bobby’s older brother Jack, who lost a battle with dementia and lymphoma in July, aged 85, to receive a posthumous knighthood.
      He said: “You couldn’t get a better character to be put forward with his warmth, character not to mention the success he achieved on the pitch.

      England captain Bobby Moore holds aloft the Jules Rimet World Cup trophy as he sits on the shoulders of his teammates, from left to right: Jack Charlton, Nobby Stiles, Gordon Banks (behind), Alan Ball, Martin Peters, Geoff Hurst, Bobby Moore, Ray Wilson, George Cohen and Bobby CharltonCredit: Popperfoto – Getty
      “You could argue that all the team should be knighted.”
      A fifth member of the 1966 World Cup squad, Ray Wilson, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s prior to his death in May 2018.
      Kate Lee, Chief Executive Officer at Alzheimer’s Society said: “We send our heartfelt thoughts and best wishes to Sir Bobby Charlton and his family following the announcement that Sir Bobby is living with dementia, which can be such a devastating condition for so many.

      “Their bravery in speaking out helps so much to shine further light on the condition, for which we are hugely thankful.
      “The team of ’66 will never be forgotten – sadly it’s now for another reason as well, but we hope that this can be put to good use in highlighting the help that is out there.”
      Sir Geoff is supporting Alzheimer’s Society’s Christmas appeal, which aims to raise funds for the UK’s 850,000 dementia patients who are suffering from the isolating effects of Covid, in tribute to his teammates. 
      Donate to Alzheimer’s Society’s Christmas Appeal at alzheimers.org.uk. For information and support about dementia you can call Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Connect Support Line or visit their website.

      Sir Geoff Hurst makes surprise call to football superfan with dementia
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      Aston Villa legend and European Cup winner Gordon Cowans diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease aged 61

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      ASTON VILLA legend Gordon Cowans has issued a moving statement confirming he has been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease, aged 61. Originally from County Durham, Cowans joined Villa as a 16-year-old apprentice. Aston Villa legend Gordon Cowans has revealed he has Alzheimer’s He went on to become a key player in the club’s greatest-ever […] More

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      Blackburn hero Tony Parkes, 70, breaks down over Alzheimer’s diagnosis as his daughter reveals his battle with illness

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      BLACKBURN ROVERS legend Tony Parkes broke down as his daughter revealed his diagnosis with Alzheimer’s disease. Parkes, 70, made 350 career appearances for Rovers after joining from Buxton in 1970. Tony Parkes was visibly emotional as his daughter Natalie revealed his diagnosis with Alzheimer’s diseaseCredit: BBC Lancashire Sport The Blackburn legend spent 12 years as […] More