As she catapulted women’s college basketball onto the global stage, legendary coach Pat Summitt faced numerous hurdles. Her greatest adversary, however, was not on the court; it was Alzheimer’s illness.
Summitt, who coached the University of Tennessee Lady Vols to eight NCAA titles and nearly 1,100 games, died on Tuesday at the age of 64.
Summitt’s diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease just before her 60th birthday signaled the end of her illustrious career and propelled her into a new role as a recorder of the disease’s effects.
“Since 2011, my mother has battled her toughest opponent, early onset dementia, ‘Alzheimer’s Type,’ and she did so with a bravely fierce determination just as she did with every opponent she ever faced,” said her son, Tyler Summitt
“Even though it’s incredibly difficult to come to terms that she is no longer with us, we can all find peace in knowing she no longer carries the heavy burden of this disease,” he added.
How long did Pat Summitt live after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s?
Pat Summitt lived for 5 years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. She revealed in 2011 that she had been diagnosed with early-onset dementia at the age of 59.