Former Arizona Diamondbacks manager and MLB legend Kirk Gibson revealed on Tuesday that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
Gibson, who managed the Diamondbacks from 2010-2014 and returned to the broadcast booth with Fox Sports Detroit this season, has not called a game since Opening Day. We now know why.
“I have faced many different obstacles in my life, and have always maintained a strong belief that no matter the circumstances, I could overcome those obstacles,” the 57-year-old said in a statement, via The Detroit Free Press. “While this diagnosis poses a new kind of challenge for me, I intend to stay true to my beliefs. With the support of my family and friends, I will meet this challenge with the same determination and unwavering intensity that I have displayed in all of my endeavors in life. I look forward to being back at the ballpark as soon as possible.”
Several players from across Major League Baseball have tweeted their support for the former Detroit Tigers outfielder.
Thoughts and Prayers go out to Kirk Gibson and his family, from my family to yours God bless and we are pulling for you
— Huston Street (@HustonStreet) April 28, 2015
Praying for Kirk Gibson and his family as he starts his battle with Parkinson's Disease…
— Brad Ziegler (@BradZiegler) April 28, 2015
Prayers and thoughts go out to Kirk Gibson and family! I have no doubt he will over come this disease, he is fighter! God is in control.
— Chase Anderson (@ChaseAnderson87) April 28, 2015
Parkinson’s is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects motor skills. Manny Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach recently opened up about his battle with the disease.
Our thoughts are with Gibson.
