Annabel Bowlen, Wife of Broncos Owner, Announces She Too Has Alzheimer’s – By Mike Klis for 9News.
KUSA – Alzheimer’s has again struck the Bowlen family.
Annabel Bowlen, wife of longtime Denver Broncos’ owner Pat Bowlen, announced she has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, a progressive brain disease that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior.
Her announcement came nearly four years after she joined the Broncos in announcing her husband Pat Bowlen had been diagnosed with the neurogenerative disease.
“I recently learned that I’ve joined my husband Pat and the millions of others who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease,’’ Annabel said in a statement to 9NEWS. “Since Pat’s diagnosis, I have gained a vivid understanding of this disease’s progression and its effect on those living with it as well as their families. My family and I have been—and will remain—dedicated supporters of Alzheimer’s awareness, treatment and research funding.’’
For several reasons, Annabel is going public with her Alzheimer’s battle much sooner than her husband did with his.
“I decided to make my diagnosis public right away in the hope that it continues to raise awareness for those battling Alzheimer’s and their loved ones,’’ Annabel said. “With June also being Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, the timing was right for me to share this personal update with everyone.’’
Think of Pat and Annabel’s five children, who must now carry on knowing both their parents became inflicted with one of the cruelest diseases known to civilization.
Yet, adversity appears to be bonding the five Bowlen children.
“We are fully supportive of our mother and will face her Alzheimer’s diagnosis together as a family,’’ Annabel’s five children – Patrick, Johnny, Brittany, Annabel and Christianna — said in a joint statement. “During the last few years, all of us have been inspired by the strength and courage our mother has shown as she’s supported our father in his own battle with Alzheimer’s disease. We’re confident that she will bring the same grace, compassion and determination to her fight.
