Tedy Bruschi Recovering From Stroke

FOXBOROUGH, MA — Former New England Patriot linebacker Tedy Bruschi suffered a stroke Thursday. Bruschi, who had a stroke in 2005 while he was still playing football, is recovering at Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro. According to Bruschi's foundation Tedy's Team, which raises money for stroke medical research and awareness, he recognized the signs early and is recovering well.

"Yesterday afternoon, Tedy had a stroke, known as a TIA (transient ischemic attack)," Tedy's Team said in a statement. "He recognized his warning signs immediately: arm weakness, face drooping and speech difficulties. Tedy is recovering well and would like to thank the nurses, doctors, and staff at Sturdy Memorial Hospital for all they have done."

Bruschi spent his entire NFL career with the New England Patriots from 1996 to 2008. During his 13-year career, Bruschi was a major part of the three Super Bowl championships. After his 2005 stroke, Bruschi made a fast recovery. He missed the beginning of the season, but returned for the final nine games. Bruschi was elected into the New England Patriots Hall of Fame in 2013.

Patriots Owner Robert Kraft in a statement wished Bruschi "godspeed" in his recovery and highlighted the inspirational work Bruschi has done for helping people detect early warning signs of strokes.

"Since his full recovery from a stroke in 2005, Tedy Bruschi has provided inspiration for to so many and positively impacted the lives of others by sharing his story and advocating for early detection of stroke symptoms ...," Kraft said in a statement. "On behalf of the entire Patriots organization, we extend our love, thoughts, and prayers to Tedy and the Bruschi family while we wish him godspeed in a complete recovery."

Since the end of his football career, Bruschi has spent his time raising money for Tedy's Team, including running in the 2019 Boston Marathon for stroke research and awareness.