Annabel Bowlen, wife of Broncos owner, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s
Jun 27, 2018, 6:52 AM | Updated: 12:13 pm
Ahead of training camp in July 2014, Pat Bowlen announced he’d be stepping away from day-to-day operations as owner the Denver Broncos to battle Alzheimer’s disease. Four years later, the disease had dealt another blow to Bowlen family.
Annabel Bowlen announced Wednesday morning she had she too had been stricken with the degenerative brain disorder, joining her “husband Pat and the millions of others who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.”
“Since Pat’s diagnosis, I have gained a vivid understanding of this disease’s progression and its effect on those living with it as well as their families,” Annabel Bowlen said in a statement. “My family and I have been — and will remain — dedicated supporters of Alzheimer’s awareness, treatment and research funding.”
In the statement, Annabel said she felt it important to make the diagnoses public right away to continue to raise awareness for “those battling Alzheimer’s and their loved ones.”
“I feel that it is important for people to know that those in my situation do not need to completely withdraw from their daily activities. Based on my own experience with Pat, there will still be many joyous and rewarding moments for me as well as my family and friends,” she said.
“I intend to proceed in life with the same strength, courage and endurance that Pat has shown in his battle with this disease. Like Pat, I know there will be good days and bad days ahead. I’m grateful to have the support of my family and especially my children — Patrick, Johnny, Brittany, Annabel and Christianna.”
Collectively the five children, in a statement, said they’re fully supporting their mother’s fight against the disease and that she’s been a beacon of “strength and courage” in light of their father’s diagnosis.
“By publicly announcing her illness, we are reminded again of our mother’s commitment to raising awareness and empowering those living with Alzheimer’s disease,” according to the statement. “We’ll continue to support our parents, stay strong as a family and do our part to raise awareness for everyone affected by Alzheimer’s disease.”
Broncos CEO and president Joe Ellis, in a statement released by the team, offered the organization’s encouragement and support to Annabel, saying:
“We commend Annabel for her brave public announcement and look forward to increasing our involvement in the Alzheimer’s community.”
Follow digital content producer Johnny Hart on Twitter: @JohnnyHart7.
