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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2009
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Ex-NBA Star Grant Battles Parkinson's

Retired forward hopes to help other early-onset sufferers

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(Newser) – Retired NBA forward Brian Grant has gone public with his diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, ESPN reports. The former player, whose career included stints with the Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers, and Miami Heat, said tests in January confirmed he had the disease. He decided to come forward now to combat rumors and offer support to other early-onset Parkinson's patients.

"I finally decided, 'I need to get in front of this,'" said Grant, 37. "Maybe there's somebody who is in their 20s and has young onset and is scared. We're all going through this together. This has given me a purpose." Grant has spoken with fellow sufferers Michael J. Fox and Muhammed Ali, and noted that some of his symptoms have subsided with lifestyle changes.

Brian Grant, then playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, waits on the court during a 1999 game against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Brian Grant, then playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, waits on the court during a 1999 game against the Los Angeles Clippers.   (Getty Images)
Brian Grant, then of the Miami Heat, looks on during a 2005 game against the Atlanta Hawks.
Brian Grant, then of the Miami Heat, looks on during a 2005 game against the Atlanta Hawks.   (Getty Images)
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Just me believing in a positive spirit will take me farther in the long run. - Brian Grant

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4 comments
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Jojo
May 19, 09 2:26 AM CDT
37? Wow, so sad. Reply
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+2
anchower
May 19, 09 3:49 AM CDT
Sorry to hear it. Reply
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+2
tameesha_sharpton
May 19, 09 6:49 AM CDT
unlike the selfish nba stars of today, he always was a 1st class act. now, he finds purpose of assisting others with this disease. pray for him. Reply
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+3
IN RESPONSE:
wwwonderer
May 19, 09 11:47 AM CDT
Played on some great teams! And PLAYED well. Always contributed. Somewhat a bit slow but solid skills. AND a class act; not excessive technicals from this guy. Kind of the demeanor u see out of Shane Battier. Sad indeed.
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