Former NFL quarterback Bernie Kosar has bravely opened up about his ongoing health struggles, which include battles with Parkinson's disease and liver failure. The 60-year-old, best known for his eight seasons with the Cleveland Browns, detailed his medical journey and the challenges he has faced.

Kosar shared that he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease by an independent NFL doctor in February of this year. Shortly after, in late spring, he was placed on a liver transplant list. The retired quarterback revealed that his health took a significant downturn during an appearance for the Browns at their game against the New York Jets on December 28th, when he felt he might not make it home.

After enduring the game, Kosar delayed seeking medical attention until the new year. When he finally went to the hospital, he received a massive blood transfusion due to his dangerously low hemoglobin levels. It was during his recovery that doctors informed him of the need for a liver transplant.

Unfortunately, Kosar's condition worsened in February when he fell ill again and had to spend several days in the hospital during the Super Bowl festivities in Las Vegas. Throughout March, his health continued to deteriorate, leaving him looking frail and battling E. Coli blood poisoning and heart trouble.

Remarkably, Kosar's doctor, Anthony Post, offered a glimmer of hope, stating that Kosar's liver disease tends to fluctuate, and he is currently in a good phase. However, Post cautioned that anything could happen, acknowledging the unpredictability of Kosar's condition.

Kosar admitted that he had been dealing with liver-related illnesses for years, but because the source of the problems remained unclear, he did not give them the attention they deserved. Doctors have yet to determine the exact cause of Kosar's liver failure, but they noted that his liver contained an incredibly high level of an organic solvent, higher than ever seen before.

Throughout his NFL career, which spanned from 1985 to 1996, Kosar endured numerous injuries, including 80 broken bones, resulting in 40 surgeries. He also experienced numerous seizures and countless concussions, leading to ongoing head and brain issues.

Despite his retirement, Kosar has remained involved in the NFL, regularly attending games and Super Bowl festivities. Last year, he made headlines when he was pictured with pop star Taylor Swift before a game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Las Vegas Chargers. Kosar's relationship with Swift, the girlfriend of Chiefs star Travis Kelce, brought together the worlds of NFL and pop culture.

Bernie Kosar's courageous openness about his health battles serves as a reminder of the physical toll that professional athletes can face long after their playing days are over. His story sheds light on the importance of raising awareness and supporting research for Parkinson's disease and liver failure.

Our thoughts are with Bernie Kosar as he continues to navigate these challenging medical issues, and we hope for a positive outcome in his ongoing treatment and potential liver transplant.