Editorials

Former Dodger Kirk Gibson Diagnosed With Parkinson’s Disease

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As a member of the 1988 Los Angeles Dodgers team, Kirk Gibson was named MVP of the regular season and became an even bigger star in the postseason.



Gibson is famous for his walk-off home run in Game 1 of the 1988 World Series that propelled the team to a World Series championship. After his playing days were over, Gibson became a sort of enemy to the Dodgers as the Arizona Diamondbacks maanger. The teams battled for NL West supremacy and the former outfielder was known for his team’s reckless attitude. Both teams engaged in scuffles and even a full-fledged brawl during Gibson’s tenure.

On Tuesday, it was announced that the 57-year-old has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Gibson was set to be in the booth for Fox Sports Detroit this season, but had been unable to work since Opening Day.

According to the Detroit Free Press, Gibson released a statement on the diagnosis:

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,” Gibson, 57, said in a released statement. “While this diagnosis poses a new kind of challenge for me, I intend to stay true to my beliefs. With the support of my family and friends, I will meet this challenge with the same determination and unwavering intensity that I have displayed in all of my endeavors in life. I look forward to being back at the ballpark as soon as possible.”

Parkinson’s is a disease that attacks the nervous system and affect’s the movement of the diseased. Boxing legend Muhammad Ali and actor Michael J. Fox are two of the more famous with the disease.

We here at Dodgers Nation would like to extend our prayers to Kirk Gibson and his family.

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Vincent Samperio

Vince is currently the Associate Editor and Social Media Manager for Dodgers Nation. Hailing from San Pedro, CA and a student at Cal State Long Beach, Vince has previously written for the Daily 49er and LASF Magazine.

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