GRIDIRON GREATS LAUNCH MEDICAL PROGRAM RETIRED NFL PLAYERS IN DIRE NEED OF MEDICAL CARE TO RECEIVE MILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN COMPREHENSIVE DONATED MEDICAL SERVICES 

             

CHICAGO (May 13, 2008) – The Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund, a not-for-profit organization that provides assistance to retired NFL players in dire need , today announced a groundbreaking medical program that will provide millions of dollars in donated medical care to former NFL players.

The program is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of many former NFL players who suffer due to their inability to care for their football-related injuries, secure affordable medical insurance and the inadequate disability and pension plan provided by the NFLPA and NFL.

 This unprecedented program will be facilitated by the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund and is being made possible through a new partnership between a group and doctors at two prestigious medical centers: the Surgical Specialty Hospital of Arizona in Phoenix and the OAA Orthopedic Specialists in Allentown, Pa.

“There’s been a lot of talk in recent years about the medical issues many retired players face due to the game and the lack of post career healthcare or affordable insurance,” said Mike Ditka.. “This has resulted in many players being forced into dire situations. There’s been too much talk, in fact, and not enough action. We’re pleased to announce today the start of the Gridiron Greats Medical Program.  Due to the generosity of a group of medical specialists and their facilities, players who qualify will be able to get the medical care they need without incurring any cost. And it will happen fast.''

For the announcement Ditka was joined at by former Chicago Bear Andy Livingston, Mercury Morris (Miami Dolphins), JD Hill (Detroit Lions/Buffalo Bills) and Brian Demarco (Jacksonville Jaguars, Cincinnati Bengals)  all who suffer from severe football-related medical issues and are unable to afford costly treatments and procedures. They will be some of the first to be evaluated for the program

“Both the administrations and physicians at these institutions understand the problem and wanted to offer their help. When they contacted us and we started putting this program together it was just amazing, the level of compassion that these physicians have”, said Jennifer Smith, Gridiron Greats Executive Director.  “Because of their generosity, the lives of many retired players will be transformed and a quality of life restored.”

The medical initiative will be facilitated through the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund. Retired NFL players can apply to the program by contacting the Gridiron Greats Administrative offices 1-800-708-1078.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Contact: Jennifer Smith, Gridiron Greats

Phone:    920-499-7133

Email:      Lombardi22@aol.com

Links to other Medical Program Pages:

Medical Program Facts

Medical Program Protocol

Medical Program - OAA

Medical Program - SSHAZ