Legendary basketball coach Pat Summitt diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease
Pat Summitt has had a successful career, leading the University of Tennessee’s Lady Vols to eight NCAA championships. Yesterday, the 59-year-old legendary coach announced that she has been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. WNBA player Tamika Catchings played for Coach Summitt at the University of Tennessee for four years. She said she was shocked by the news, but, she explained, “When you think about all of the things Pat’s been able to accomplish, a lot of it has come from her determination and she’s had so many trials and tribulations throughout her life, but look at her. You know, she’s still standing strong.” Despite her fighting spirit, Summitt’s diagnosis raises questions about Alzheimer’s disease, particularly because Summitt is younger than most who suffer from Alzheimer’s. We’re speaking with Dr. Heather Snyder, senior associate director of medical and scientific relations for the Alzheimer’s Association.
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