In a heartfelt revelation, former professional footballer Dean Windass has shared that he has been diagnosed with stage two dementia.
This condition leads to mild cognitive decline and memory issues, a reality that is affecting many in the sports world today.
The news was first revealed by ex-Manchester United defender David May during an appearance on BBC Breakfast, where he spoke candidly about the growing concerns regarding dementia in football.
May later clarified on social media that Windass had granted him permission to publicly share the diagnosis, hoping to bring attention to the issue and raise awareness.
Windass’s Public Message of Strength
Soon after the announcement, Windass took to social media himself, posting a video of him singing in his car with a positive message: “Just got to keep smiling and trying to help people.”
Despite the challenges posed by the condition, Windass remains determined to maintain a positive outlook and support others who might be facing similar struggles.
Stage two dementia typically involves mild yet noticeable memory lapses, like forgetting familiar names or misplacing everyday items.
Although these symptoms can often be mistaken for normal aging, they mark the early signs of cognitive decline, especially in individuals with a history of repetitive head impacts, such as football players.
A Stellar Football Career Remembered
Windass’s remarkable career spanned over two decades, and he is best remembered for his stunning volley in Hull City’s 2008 Championship play-off final against Bristol City.
That iconic goal helped secure the club’s historic promotion to the Premier League.
Over the course of his career, Windass also played for clubs like Aberdeen, Bradford City, and Middlesbrough, accumulating more than 200 goals in over 600 appearances.
Now, as he faces this personal battle, Windass joins a growing number of former footballers advocating for better awareness and support for those dealing with neurodegenerative diseases like dementia.
The Push for Awareness and Support
Windass’s diagnosis has ignited a wider conversation about the risks faced by professional athletes in contact sports.
Research has shown that repeated head impacts during football may increase the likelihood of developing conditions like dementia.
This has led to increased calls for better understanding and more effective measures to protect athletes both during and after their careers.
Fans have expressed their support on social media, with many sharing their own experiences with dementia and offering encouraging words for Windass as he continues to face this challenge.
Support from the Football Community
The football community has rallied around Windass. One fan shared a personal message: “I’m so sorry to hear that Deano. My mum had Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.
Keep doing what you’re doing, stay active body and mind, and of course, you’ve got the Yorkshire grit and fighting spirit.”
Another supporter wrote: “Awful news and at such a young age too. Thoughts with all his family and friends at this sad time.”
The widespread reaction underscores the deep connection that fans feel for their heroes and the support they offer in times of need.
The Rising Costs of Dementia Care
During his appearance on BBC Breakfast, David May also touched on the financial strain that dementia care can impose.
He questioned whether the funds allocated by the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) were enough to meet the growing needs of future generations of players, one in three of whom may be at risk of developing dementia.
May’s comments echo those of other figures in the football world, including John Stiles, who revealed that his father, the legendary Nobby Stiles, was forced to auction off his medals to fund his dementia care, as reported by The Manchester Evening News.
Looking Ahead
As the conversation around dementia in football continues to gain momentum, it’s clear that greater awareness and support are crucial.
The impact of repetitive head trauma on the brain is becoming increasingly recognized, and efforts to ensure that former players receive the care they need are more urgent than ever.
For Windass, his fight is not just personal but part of a wider battle to safeguard the health and well-being of future generations of athletes.