DailySun
Legendary Manchester United player Denis Law bravely battled Alzheimer’s and dementia in the years leading up to his passing on Friday at the age of 84.
Denis disclosed his dementia diagnosis in August 2021 and dedicated his efforts to raising awareness about the condition right up until his demise.
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In March 2023, he and wife Diana shared their experiences regarding the challenges of caring for someone with dementia as part of an Alzheimer’s Society initiative.
Their heartfelt joint statement expressed: “When we exchanged vows, we never anticipated that we would have to uphold those promises to their fullest extent due to dementia many years later.”
“We handle everything as a pair. However, navigating through dementia has meant that Diana has taken on more responsibilities, though we still operate as a unified team. This is a significant adjustment for both of us.
“This serves as a reminder that dementia can affect anyone, regardless of their position in life.
“I feel truly fortunate to have had such an illustrious career in football.
“Very few can attest to the experiences I’ve had – including lifting the World Cup! The affection from the public has been remarkable.”
Denis was candid about his diagnosis from the outset, acknowledging that the road ahead would be “difficult, challenging, painful, and ever-changing.”
He remarked back then: “This journey won’t be easy, especially for those who care for you the most.
“I’ve become aware of my cognitive struggles, noticing how I can sometimes forget things when I wish to, leading to discomfort in unexpected situations.
“I comprehend what is happening, which is why I want to discuss my condition while I am still able, understanding that some days I may not grasp it, and that thought weighs heavily on me.”
Denis Law recalls his remarkable career in the Sky documentary The Law Man
Denis joined a group of retired footballers diagnosed with degenerative brain diseases, including his former United teammate Sir Bobby Charlton.
A statement from the Law family released on Friday evening read: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Denis Law.
“He fought valiantly, and now he rests in peace.”
“We sincerely thank everyone who has contributed to his care and support, both in the past and recently.
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“We understand how profoundly loved and supported he was, and that love was everything to him. Thank you.”
Law’s football journey began at Huddersfield Town, followed by stints at Manchester City and a period with Torino in Italy.
Nevertheless, it was at Old Trafford, from 1962 to 1973, that he truly made his mark, netting 237 goals in 404 appearances.
He secured two league titles with United and the FA Cup, playing an integral part in their 1968 European Cup Final victory over Benfica, despite being sidelined due to injury at the time.
Sir Bobby Charlton, Law, and George Best played pivotal roles in leading the Red Devils to become the first English side to win the esteemed European Cup.
In a statement released after his passing, Denis’s former club expressed: “Everyone at Manchester United is mourning the loss of Denis Law, the King of the Stretford End, who passed away at 84.
“With 237 goals in 404 appearances, he will perpetually be revered as one of the club’s greatest and most cherished players.
“The ultimate goal-scorer, his enthusiasm, character, and passion for the game made him a legend of his era.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to Denis’s family and countless friends. His legacy will endure forever.”
The conversation surrounding the connection between football and dementia has intensified since the passing of West Brom striker Jeff Astle in 2002.
His death was later confirmed as the first incident of a British footballer succumbing to the effects of repeatedly heading a football.
Consequently, the inquest declared a verdict of “death by industrial disease.”
A study published in 2019 found that professional footballers are three-and-a-half times more likely to experience dementia compared to individuals of the same age in the general population.
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