AFL Great Brendan Fevola's Career Disrupted by Painful Shingles Diagnosis
AFL legend Brendan Fevola has disclosed that he was compelled to temporarily halt his football career at its peak after being diagnosed with shingles, a viral infection causing severe pain. His father, Angelo, also contracted the condition in 2025 while managing rheumatoid arthritis, with both now speaking publicly about the excruciating illness.
Excruciating Pain Forced Training Cancellations
During an interview with 7NEWS, Fevola described the intense discomfort, stating it prevented him from training and performing weight exercises. "The pain, it was excruciating," he explained. "I think I've had like 22 operations and I've done knees and Achilles and shoulders and fingers, and this would have to be one of the worst pains I've felt. It didn't allow me to train. I couldn't do weights. Obviously, being a footy player, it took away my ability to work."
Angelo Fevola's Agonising Experience with Shingles
Angelo recounted his own harrowing ordeal, emphasizing the shocking nature of the pain. "It was shocking," he said. "I was stuck to the bed, stuck to the sheet. It's just not right. If I knew about it quicker, I would have done something about it, but I didn't." He initially noticed a small scab on his back, applying cream before it worsened, leading a pharmacist to recommend immediate GP consultation. Upon diagnosis, Angelo was unfamiliar with shingles, highlighting a lack of awareness.
Understanding Shingles and Its Causes
Shingles is a viral infection triggered by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. After chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate if the immune system weakens, resulting in painful rashes. Symptoms include:
- A painful or tingling sensation on the skin
- A visible rash
- Headaches
Advocacy for Shingles Action Week 2026
Brendan and Angelo have become ambassadors for Shingles Action Week 2026, aiming to raise awareness about the illness. They urge others to seek prompt treatment if symptoms arise to avoid complications like long-term nerve pain, infections, and muscle weakness.
Expert Advice on Early Intervention
Professor Tony Cunningham, a leading healthcare professional, stressed the importance of immediate action upon noticing a rash. "When you see the rash, you should go to your doctor immediately because you've got about three days for antiviral agents like Valtrex and Famvir to work and they will actually shut off the rash and the pain within 24-48 hours," he advised. Vaccinations are available in Australia, free for individuals aged 65 and over, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 and over, and those over 18 considered at risk.
Brendan Fevola's Illustrious AFL Career
Fevola, a two-time Coleman Medallist, enjoyed a successful career from 1999 to 2010. Recruited by Carlton in the 1998 AFL National Draft, he scored 575 goals in 187 appearances before joining the Brisbane Lions in 2010, where he kicked 48 goals in 17 matches prior to retiring. Reflecting on the impact of shingles, Brendan said, "Watching loved ones go through some horrific pain that can be prevented — it's not good," while Angelo added, "It nearly brings you down to tears."
