NFL Players Seek Aid for Illnesses

May 31, 03:40 PM

Current Headlines: A group of 35 former NFL players have filed for monetary assistance to fight symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Since the NFL's 88 Plan became effective Feb. 1, 35 retired players have been approved for aid for dementia or related brain problems and an additional 19 cases are pending.

They are receiving $88,000 for medical care.

The list of players includes Hall of Fame tight end John Mackey, who wore the No. 88 in his playing days with the Baltimore Colts.

NFLPA Executive Director Gene Upshaw said the league and union are trying to go beyond what he calls word of mouth in identifying other players on the list.

The identification is being done through the Bert Bell retirement fund, which handles pensions for more than 9,000 retired players.

The money comes from a trust fund admission.

The plan is part of the labor contract agreed upon in March 2006 by the league and union.