Bernie Kosar Discharged from Hospital After Liver Transplant
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Bernie Kosar was discharged from the hospital on Monday, just one week after undergoing a liver transplant. Kosar expressed gratitude for the support he received, stating, 'Blessed to be getting discharged today, and appreciative of all the support that's carried me to this point.
Just in time for my birthday tmrw!' Kosar, who turns 62 on Tuesday, spent over a year on the transplant waiting list amid various medical complications before his procedure on November 17 at University Hospitals in Cleveland.
His donor was identified as 21-year-old Bryce Dunlap, a Browns fan who passed away due to a medical emergency. Kosar reflected on the emotional impact of this gift, saying, 'That's probably the biggest struggle of it right now.
We're still doing this with heavy hearts with what happened with Bryce Dunlap and his family. I can't tell ya how much my thoughts and prayers are with you. I can't thank you enough. I'm not taking this gift for granted.' Kosar was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver and Parkinson's disease, which he discussed in an interview with Cleveland Magazine last year.
Kosar is celebrated for his impressive NFL career, which spanned 12 seasons from 1985 to 1996. He initially made his mark with the Cleveland Browns, leading the team to a 12-4 season in 1986 and earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1987.
During his time with the Browns, he led the team to the AFC Championship Game three times, though he faced defeats against the Denver Broncos in 1986, 1987, and 1989. He ended his career with a record of 53 wins, 54 losses, and 1 tie as a starter, completing 59.3% of his passes for 23,301 yards, 124 touchdowns, and 87 interceptions in 126 games across his stints with the Browns, Dallas Cowboys, and Miami Dolphins.
Kosar secured a Super Bowl ring in Super Bowl XXVIII as a backup for the Cowboys under Troy Aikman. His recovery journey resonates deeply with the Cleveland community, highlighting the personal challenges faced by former athletes.
According to Deadspin, Kosar's story serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing support and love from fans and the importance of organ donation.