Former NFL star Bernie Kosar has shared a distressing health update, revealing he is preparing for his third surgical procedure this week alone. The 61-year-old, who is battling liver failure and Parkinson's disease, made an emotional plea for support from his hospital bed.
A Week of Medical Crises
Kosar's situation took a dramatic turn when a donor liver he was due to receive over the weekend was discovered to be infected, forcing cancellation of the transplant. His health deteriorated further on Monday when he began suffering from internal bleeding, requiring what he described as two 'aggressive procedures' to stabilise his condition.
In a heartfelt Facebook video from his hospital bed on Wednesday, the former Cleveland Browns quarterback asked fans for their emotional backing before facing another operation. 'Man, all the duress right now, I could really use your love, support and actual prayers today,' Kosar told his followers, his voice conveying the severity of his situation.
Long-standing Health Battles
Kosar's current health crisis follows his revelation to Cleveland Magazine in July 2024 that he was diagnosed with cirrhosis and early-stage Parkinson's disease. He recounted how his body 'gave out' during an appearance at a Browns game against the Jets in December 2023, leaving him fearing for his life.
'I really felt like I wasn't going to make it home from the Jets game,' Kosar confessed. 'I sucked it up, though, and continued to avoid the doctors until the new year. Then I went into the hospital and got a massive blood transfusion.' Medical professionals were astonished by his survival, questioning how he remained mobile with critically low hemoglobin levels.
The former quarterback, who spent nine years with the Browns, three seasons with the Dolphins and one with the Cowboys, attributes many of his current health issues to his NFL career. He estimates suffering approximately 100 concussions and 80 broken bones during his playing days, highlighting the long-term physical toll of professional football.
The Transplant Dilemma and Ongoing Treatment
As News 5 Cleveland reported during summer, Kosar has been on a liver transplant list for over a year. However, the prospect of receiving a new organ brings mixed emotions for the sports legend, who expressed spiritual conflict about the circumstances required for a transplant.
'To really realize that I'm going to be getting a liver from somebody that really could have a bad accident today,' he said. 'From a psychological standpoint, I don't wish any ill or issues like that on anybody, and to think that that's kind of what we're waiting for right now, it's spiritually conflicting.'
The August report also detailed that Kosar requires surgical procedures 'every couple of days' to remove fluid from his blood, indicating the relentless nature of his medical treatment. He previously admitted suffering with liver-related illnesses for years without identifying a clear source for the problems.
Despite retiring from professional football in 1996, Kosar has remained connected to the sport, making regular appearances at NFL events and Super Bowl festivities. He was even photographed with pop superstar Taylor Swift two years ago at a pre-game gathering at Travis Kelce's house, demonstrating his continued presence in the sports community despite his health challenges.
