Former NFL quarterback Tommy Kramer reveals he's been diagnosed with dementia

Former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tommy Kramer has announced he's been diagnosed with dementia.

Kramer admitted on social media that Brett Favre's decision to reveal he's got Parkinson's earlier this week inspired him to share his own diagnosis.   

Kramer, 69, played 14 seasons in the NFL - 13 of which were with the Vikings - and was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1986.

Kramer posted on X: 'With Brett Favre announcement yesterday, I feel it’s best I let everyone know that I was diagnosed with dementia just over a year ago at the NFL Cleveland Clinic.

'Dr’s say I could have anywhere from 2 to 10 years, just had my year check up and it hasn’t advanced and I’ve been sober for almost a year now which will definitely help.

'Please, no sympathy, I’ve lived a great life and wouldn’t change a thing. Nobody wanted to win more than me and I never gave up, and that’s exactly how I’m going to battle this.

'Football is the life we chose to live and sometimes stuff like this can happen. I'm grateful to the NFL for the opportunity and am glad they are trying to do things to protect today’s players.

'Financially I’m fine, but I know there are players out there who I played with that need all the help they can get. Unfortunately for me, the NFL will only try to help out with any of my medical bills and therapy what my personal insurance won’t cover. 

'I’m hoping to bring some awareness so the NFL will be able to help others and future players who are battling illnesses like myself.

'It’s still all about the fans for me, as long as I’m able, I’m going to continue to be out there and travel to the small towns which I love most and meet the fans. Thank you for all the support and always remember, “We’re not here for a long time, we’re here for a good time”.'

Kramer, born in Texas, was drafted in the first round by the Vikings in the 1977 draft.

He currently sits second in passing yards in Vikings history, behind franchise icon Frank Tarkenton. Kramer played his final NFL season with the New Orleans Saints. 

On Tuesday, Favre revealed he was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at the age of 54 - after suffering multiple concussions throughout his two-decade career. 

The Packers legend revealed his shocking health update while speaking at a Congressional hearing on welfare misspending and reform, after he became embroiled in a $77million welfare fraud scandal in Mississippi.

While testifying, Favre read from pre-written notes and began speaking about the now-defunct concussion drug company Prevacus, in which he was the top outside investor. 

The company had received $2 million from the federal Government's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families fund. 

'Sadly, I also lost an investment in a company that I believed was developing a breakthrough concussion drug I thought would help others,' he said. 

'I'm sure you'll understand, while it's too late for me because I've recently been diagnosed with Parkinson's, this is also a cause dear to my heart.'

Favre - who played in the NFL for 20 years - has previously spoken openly about suffering 'thousands' of concussions on the football field.

Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder that causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, including stiffness, shaking and difficulty with balance.

It is unclear what causes the disease, but scientists believe it is a combination of genetic and environmental factors, per the Parkinson's Foundation.

Favre took to social media after his shocking revelation in the hearing, thanking fans for their support as he prepares to battle Parkinson's.

'First, I want to thank God for all He has done in my life,' he wrote on X. 'Next, thanks to Congress for giving me the platform to discuss a much needed TANF reform. 

'As you know, I was recently diagnosed w/ Parkinson’s which has been an ordeal. My wife, family, and friends have been supportive and I want to thank them for being there for me. To my fans and those wishing well — thank you all for the love.'