Approximately 20,000 athletes have played in the NFL since
its inception. Despite this
relatively small number, many of these men are among the most severely injured
in sports.
Football is a high-velocity, collision sport. Success is based on the ability to
resist injury and tolerate pain.
Many of the injuries incurred while playing become chronic and lead to
lifelong debility. Although many
injuries are orthopedic, an increasing number of traumatic brain injuries and
psychiatric problems are emerging.
Sadly, little has been done to support these former football
players and their families. Some
have moved into other professions that provide health benefits. Others have been left to find
entitlement programs where health care is limited and preventive care is
non-existent.
Fortunately, in the most recent collective bargaining
agreement, active NFL players negotiated for approximately $200 million to be set aside for the ongoing health care of former players. The program through which this is
administered, currently known as “The Trust,” has become much more than a
health program.
“The Trust is a set of resources, programs and services
designed to provide former players with the support, skills and tools to help
ensure success off the field and in life after football,” states Bahati
VanPelt, executive director of The Trust.
The Trust consists of six pillars that address brain and
body, career, education, finances, personal interaction and lifestyle. The brain and body pillar utilizes
national health centers at the Cleveland Clinic, Tulane University and the University
of North Carolina.
“I received the most comprehensive medical evaluation I have
had since playing in the NFL,” reports former player, Bernard Whittington.
The Trust is a unique program. Establishing a system of care for former players by active
players sends an important message to skeptical sports fans that it’s not
always about the money.
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