Annabel Bowlen, wife of Broncos owner Pat Bowlen, speaks on his behalf during his introduction into the Broncos Ring of Fame on November 1, 2015 at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. (Photo: Justin Edmonds: Getty Images)
KOA NewsRadio Broncos Insider Mike Klis of 9News reports that Annabel Bowlen, wife of Broncos owner Pat Bowlen, has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
This comes four years after the two of them went public with Mr. Bowlen's battle with the disease.
Our hearts go out to the Bowlen family.
Get more on the story at Mike's links below.
Mike spoke with April Zesbaugh, Marty Lenz and Mike Rice on Colorado's Morning News.
Amelia Schafer, Executive Director of the Alzheimer's Association Colorado Chapter, was also on Colorado's Morning News.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2018
ANNABEL BOWLEN ANNOUNCES HER ALZHEIMER’S DIAGNOSIS
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Annabel Bowlen, wife of Denver Broncos Owner Pat Bowlen, today announced that she has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Please see below for statements from Mrs. Bowlen, her five children (Patrick, Johnny, Brittany, Annabel and Christianna) and Broncos President & CEO Joe Ellis.
STATEMENT FROM ANNABEL BOWLEN
“I recently learned that I've joined my husband Pat and the millions of others who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
“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.
“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. With June also being Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, the timing was right for me to share this personal update with everyone.
“I feel that it is important for people to know that those in my situation do not need to completely withdraw from their daily activities. Based on my own experience with Pat, there will still be many joyous and rewarding moments for me as well as my family and friends.
“I intend to proceed in life with the same strength, courage and endurance that Pat has shown in his battle with this disease. Like Pat, I know there will be good days and bad days ahead. I'm grateful to have the support of my family and especially my children—Patrick, Johnny, Brittany, Annabel and Christianna.
“It's my hope to remain involved in various Alzheimer's events as my health allows. And of course, I'll be cheering on our Broncos.
“Most importantly, thank you to all of our incredible fans for the compassion and support you've given to me, Pat and our entire family.”
STATEMENT FROM ANNABEL BOWLEN’S FIVE CHILDREN (PATRICK, JOHNNY, BRITTANY, ANNABEL AND CHRISTIANNA)
“We are fully supportive of our mother and will face her Alzheimer’s diagnosis together as a family.
“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.
“In addition to being a loving mother, she has always found ways to positively impact our community. By publicly announcing her illness, we are reminded again of our mother’s commitment to raising awareness and empowering those living with Alzheimer’s disease.
“We’ll continue to support our parents, stay strong as a family and do our part to raise awareness for everyone affected by Alzheimer’s disease.”
STATEMENT FROM DENVER BRONCOS PRESIDENT AND CEO JOE ELLIS
“Our hearts go out to Annabel and the entire Bowlen family. She's been a wonderful ambassador and advocate for the Broncos over the years, especially in recent seasons as Pat has focused on his own battle with Alzheimer's disease.
“All of us at the Broncos are behind Annabel and know she'll face this challenge with courage and determination.
“Our support extends not only to Annabel and Pat, but also to their children. While having both parents diagnosed with Alzheimer's is daunting, they’ve already demonstrated such strength and compassion in their roles as caregivers.
“We commend Annabel for her brave public announcement and look forward to increasing our involvement in the Alzheimer’s community.”