Brett Favre took to social media to express his gratitude to fans and supporters after announcing his Parkinson’s diagnosis.
The former Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame quarterback shared his diagnosis during his testimony before Congress. Following this, he posted a message on social media thanking God for his blessings and appreciating the support he has received from fans, friends, and family.
“First, I want to thank God for all He has done in my life. Next, thanks to Congress for allowing me to discuss important TANF reform. As you know, I was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s, which has been challenging. I’m grateful for the support from my wife, family, and friends. To my fans and those wishing me well — thank you all for the love.🙏”
Favre’s testimony to the Ways and Means Committee was part of a congressional hearing on federal welfare reform. According to A.J. Perez from Front Office Sports, Favre aimed to highlight the need for better oversight in TANF fund distribution.
“Favre’s testimony focused on the need for ‘guardrails’ regarding Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds—around $8 million of which was allocated to Favre, a volleyball stadium at his alma mater, and a drug company he supported.”
Favre has not faced any criminal charges.
In his congressional appearance, Favre discussed his efforts to use Mississippi TANF funds to support the University of Southern Mississippi Athletic Foundation in building a volleyball center.
“I wanted to help my alma mater and benefit the community,” he explained to Congress. “Southern Miss connected me with the nonprofit to see if they could assist with funding. I had no way of knowing there was anything wrong with how the state funded the project, especially since it received approval from various state agencies and multiple attorneys, including the Attorney General.
“Unfortunately, I also lost my investment in a company that I believed was developing a breakthrough concussion drug. As I’m sure you’ll understand, while it’s too late for me—I’ve recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s—this cause is close to my heart. The doctor overseeing the company recently pleaded guilty to misusing TANF funds.”
Favre has been named as a defendant in a lawsuit filed by the Mississippi Department of Human Services, which seeks to recover $90 million in improperly spent TANF funds.
