Hall of Fame DT Steve McMichael to Receive Hospice Care
A statement from a spokeswoman for the former Chicago Bears star, as reported by ESPN, confirmed that Hall of Fame defensive tackle Steve McMichael is being moved into hospice care. "Yes, Steve is being moved to hospice care today," said Betsy Shepherd, as quoted in the ESPN article.
The news comes as McMichael, who was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in 2021, continues to battle the debilitating neurological disease. According to his wife, Misty McMichael, Steve has been unresponsive for the past two weeks and has been in and out of hospital. The family was advised by Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox to consider transferring him to hospice care.
Steve McMichael’s illustrious football career was marked by numerous accolades, including a Super Bowl championship with the Chicago Bears in 1985. He was a two-time All-Pro, earning the honour in 1985 and 1987. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport, McMichael was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame last year. Throughout his career, he played in a franchise-record 191 consecutive games from 1981 to 1993 and ranks second to Richard Dent on the Bears’ all-time sacks list with 92½.
McMichael’s struggles with ALS were made public in April 2021, when he spoke to the Chicago Tribune about his experiences with the disease. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, causing loss of muscle control. As reported by ESPN, McMichael’s condition has significantly deteriorated in recent weeks, prompting his transfer to hospice care.
According to ESPN, McMichael’s wife, Misty, provided insight into his current condition, stating that he has been unresponsive for the past two weeks. The family, with the guidance of medical professionals, has made the difficult decision to move him to hospice care, where he will receive the necessary support and care.
The news has sparked an outpouring of support for McMichael, a beloved figure in the world of American football. As ESPN reports, McMichael’s legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments, with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame serving as a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.
As McMichael begins this new chapter in his care, tributes have been pouring in from the football community and beyond. The ESPN report, which first broke the news of his transfer to hospice care, serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges he has faced and the strength he has shown in the face of adversity.
Source: ESPN
