Saturday, April 20, 2024

Former Spartan and Detroit Tiger Kirk Gibson diagnosed with Parkinson's disease

April 28, 2015

Former MSU and Detroit Tigers great 57-year-old Kirk Gibson has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Gibson returned to the booth of the Tigers following a stint as manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks. He has not been with the team since opening day.

Gibson was an All-American wide receiver on the football team at MSU, he also played baseball for the Spartans for one season. He was also a key member of the Tigers 1984 World Series Championship team.

Gibson's son, Cam, is a junior outfielder on the Spartan baseball team.

Parkinson's disease has effected other notable athletes such as Muhammad Ali. It is a nervous system disorder that effects movement and can be slow moving in its progression.

In a statement obtained by the Lansing State Journal, Gibson vowed to face this challenge.

"I have faced many different obstacles in my life, and have always maintained a strong belief that no matter the circumstances, I could overcome those obstacles."

Support student media! Please consider donating to The State News and help fund the future of journalism.

Discussion

Share and discuss “Former Spartan and Detroit Tiger Kirk Gibson diagnosed with Parkinson's disease” on social media.