Walter Payton, the historic NFL rushing leader and a former Chicago Bears back who was known for his tough drive and attitude passed away at the age of 45 from a terrible illness that went untreated. However, what did Walter Payton die from and what causes is death is a raising concern.
Despite his drug usage, his developing liver illness and PSC are well known reasons of what did Walter Payton die from
Not only this but there was also some other reasons. So, let’s explore Walter Payton’s cause of death in more detail here.
What Did Walter Payton Die From?
In 1998, Payton was diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a rare and painful condition that affects only three out of every 100,000 individuals and results in liver failure and cirrhosis.
In a heartbreaking press conference on February 2, 1999, a slender and jaundiced Payton disclosed his illness and that he was suffering from primary sclerosing cholangitis, that may have contributed to the development of his cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer). He further said that a liver transplant would be the only treatment.
Walter Payton’s Illness
In the press conference, Payton said: “Am I afraid? Yes, indeed, I’m afraid. Would you not be afraid?” he asked. However, it’s no longer in my control. God is in charge of it.”
“I’m considering it as an ankle injury or a bent knee,” he stated. “I must maintain my optimistic outlook. No one else can keep me optimistic. That must be something I have to do. After this, whatever occurs, happens.
After that, whatever occurs, happens. It’s nothing to worry about if in two years something occurs and I have a transplantation and my body embraces it and I continue. If, after two years, I do not, then that is how my life was supposed to be.”
However, by the time his initial request was captured on camera, his sickness had progressed too much for a transplant to have been an appropriate choice. He spent the last months of his life as an organ donation representative, showing up in numerous ads to urge others to give organs.
That April, Payton made his final public appearance alongside Mike Ditka at a Chicago Cubs game in a ceremonial. In the final weeks of his life, author Don Yaeger collaborated with him to write his autobiography, Never Die Easy.
Walter Payton’s Death
Unfortunately, Payton would not survive his entire year. He passed away from his illness-related complications on November 1, 1999. His age was forty-six at that time.
He lost his chance of receiving a liver transplant when he was diagnosed with bile duct carcinoma, a known side effect of PSC. A liver transplant is not a feasible choice after a patient with PSC develops cancer. The drugs required to prevent the body from rejecting the newly transplanted liver increase the spread of tumours.
Walter Payton’s After Death
Speakers during Payton’s public funeral ceremony at Soldier Field were his widow, Connie Payton, his two kids, Jarrett and Brittney, and then-NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue, a former colleague.
John Madden, Illinois Governor George Ryan, Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley, past teammates Matt Suhey, Mike Singletary, Roland Harper, and Jim McMahon, as well as the equipment supervisor and building superintendent of the Bears, were among the 1,000 mourners at the private funeral.
The NFL organized specialised events in each game that week to honour his professional achievements and legacy. To commemorate and honour Payton, the Chicago Bears wore unique #34 patches on their jerseys.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the enigma related to “what did Walter Payton die from” is clear now.
Walter Payton’s developing liver illness, primary sclerosing cholangitis, was well known by his announcement. However, bile duct carcinoma was the reason for Mr. Payton’s death.On the first anniversary of his death, Payton’s friends and former colleagues expressed their grief.
One of his old instructors had a motto, “Never die easy,” which came to represent his athletic style, his will to fight in the face of challenges, and, in the end, his point of view on dying. The Walter Payton Cancer Fund, The Alliance for the Children, and The Walter Payton Organization all carried on Payton’s legacy.