Former Premier League forward Dean Windass has been diagnosed with dementia at the age of 55.
The former Hull City, Bradford City and Middlesbrough’s star condition was revealed by the ex-Manchester United defender David May during an interview on BBC Breakfast.
“I only spoke to Dean Windass yesterday, ex-professional footballer,” said May. “I asked Deano how he is. He’s been diagnosed with Stage 2 dementia. He’s the same age as me and he’s worried sick of how it’s going to be in the future for him.”
May later took to Twitter/X to state that he had been given permission by Windass to disclose his condition.
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He wrote: “FYI I spoke to @DWindass10 last night and asked his permission. He was 100 per cent behind me mentioning that he had been diagnosed with stage 2 dementia. Deano has just done an article for a national newspaper which will be published soon.. Share the love.”
Windass famously scored the Wembley playoff final goal that took boyhood club Hull to the Premier League in 2008.
Dean Windass celebrating his goal that earned Hull promotion in 2008
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Image:
AFP/Getty Images)
He retweeted May’s message disclosing the permission he gave him, as well as another message of support which read: “I’m so sorry to hear that Deano. My mum had Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. Keep doing what you’re doing mate, stay active body and mind my friend and of course you’ve got the Yorkshire grit, fighting spirit and great support.”
Windass also posted a video from his car singing along to Rhinestone Cowboy by Glen Campbell, along with the caption: “Just got to keep smiling and trying to help people.”
Windass starred for Bradford, Middlesbrough and Hull in the Premier League
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Image:
Daily Mirror)
May had appeared on BBC Breakfast to discuss the rising cases of dementia in retired footballers, with new research connecting the cases to heading balls.
May said: “Over my career, I probably headed the football about 20,000 times in total. It’s only coming to light now. I’d like to know where I’ll be in ten years’ time, will I have the care from the governing bodies, PFA, for funding that these families are not currently getting?
“It’s worrying. I’m worried, of course I am. I’ve got a family to look after and I don’t want my children looking after me day in day out. Care does cost a lot of money. Is there enough to care for future generations?
David May revealed Windass’ diagnosis with the former forward’s permission
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Image:
BBC Breakfast)
“One in three [footballers have the] possibility of getting dementia. The message needs to get out there.”
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