Wayne Walker reveals he has Parkinson's disease

October 30, 2015

Former All-Pro NFL linebacker and popular Bay Area sportscaster Wayne Walker has revealed he has been battling Parkinson's disease for the last five years.

In an interview with KPIX, where he was sports director from 1974 to 1994, Walker linked the disease to his 15 seasons with the Detroit Lions from 1958 to 1972.

The evidence suggests the cause is due to repetitive blows to the head.

By his count, Wayne had at least 20 concussions over the 200 games he played, and was knocked out cold twice. "I got knocked out totally and went back in the same game," said Wayne.

Parkinson's disease is a chronic disorder of the nervous system that affects motor skills and movement and worsens over time. Although it cannot be cured, its symptoms can be treated. 

The 79-year-old Walker, who lives in Idaho, told the station his medical expenses were being covered by the 88 Plan, a fund for players with dementia and related injuries named after former Baltimore Colts tight end John Mackey, who wore No. 88. Separately, the NFL has reached a billion-dollar settlement with retired players with brain injuries, which is being challenged by players who think it isn't enough. 

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