Annabel Bowlen, wife of Broncos owner Pat Bowlen, revealed Wednesday that she has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
Annabel Bowlen, wife of #Broncos Owner Pat Bowlen, has announced that she too has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) June 27, 2018
Mrs. B, you have all of #BroncosCountry behind you.
📰 » https://t.co/Q96cnRuNDH pic.twitter.com/YSvKvoeqAi
Annabel's announcement comes nearly four years after her husband announced his own battle with the disease.
"I recently learned that I've joined my husband Pat and the millions of others who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease," Annabel said in a statement released by the team. "Since Pat's diagnosis, I have gained a vivid understanding of this disease’s progression and its effect on those living with it as well as their families."
Annabel remains optimistic and said she wanted to share her diagnosis right away in hopes of helping others who are fighting the disease.
"I feel that it's important for people to know that those in my situation do not need to completely withdraw from their daily activities," Bowlen added. "Based on my own experience with Pat, there will still be many joyous and rewarding moments for me as well as my family and friends."
Annabel has served as the figurehead of Broncos ownership since Pat stepped aside in July 2014. Annabel's diagnosis won't effect how the team is run and team president Joe Ellis will continue to take on ownership responsibilities.
The Broncos have won three Super Bowl titles under the Bowlen family ownership.