Broncos owner's wife diagnosed with Alzheimer's, just like husband

The Denver Broncos organization and its fans received some very sad news Wednesday.

Annabel Bowlen, the wife of team owner Pat Bowlen, has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, just like her husband.

In a statement to KUSA-TV in Denver, Annabel Bowlen says going through her husband’s journey will help her and her family now.

“I recently learned that I’ve joined my husband Pat and the millions of others who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease,” she said. “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. My family and I have been — and will remain — dedicated supporters of Alzheimer’s awareness, treatment and research funding.’’

Pat Bowlen has kept a low profile the last four years as he’s battled the disease, and was conspicuously absent during the Broncos’ Super Bowl 50 win over Carolina.

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His wife is going public with her fight to help awareness across the country.

“I decided to make my diagnosis public right away in the hope that it continues to raise awareness for those battling Alzheimer’s and their loved ones,’’ Annabel said. “With June also being Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, the timing was right for me to share this personal update with everyone.’’

Reaction across Broncos Nation has been swift and heartfelt.

All-Pro linebacker Von Miller shared his feelings on Instagram.

View this post on Instagram

Mrs. B – My prayers are with you & the Bowlen Family. I admire your courage. Stay strong & we're all behind you 👊🏾!!!!! #broncoscountry 🐴 @broncos

A post shared by Von Miller (@vonmiller) on Jun 27, 2018 at 1:37pm PDT

And the organization itself clearly realizes the importance of the Bowlens on the team and the community.

While she has remained by Pat Bowlen’s side for decades of great #Broncos memories, Annabel Bowlen has developed her own legacy in the Denver community beyond football. pic.twitter.com/DzuC0UfUei

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) June 27, 2018

Annabel Bowlen, wife of #Broncos Owner Pat Bowlen, has announced that she too has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

Mrs. B, you have all of #BroncosCountry behind you.

📰 » https://t.co/Q96cnRuNDH pic.twitter.com/YSvKvoeqAi

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) June 27, 2018

Earlier this month, The Wildcard told readers about a power struggle among the Bowlen family and the team for control of day-to-day operations.

But as the news broke, the Bowlen children issued a statement.

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“We are fully supportive of our mother and will face her Alzheimer’s diagnosis together as a family,” the statement read. “During the last few years, all of us have been inspired by the strength and courage our mother has shown as she’s supported our father in his own battle with Alzheimer’s disease. We’re confident that she will bring the same grace, compassion and determination to her fight.

“In addition to being a loving mother, she has always found ways to positively impact our community. By publicly announcing her illness, we are reminded again of our mother’s commitment to raising awareness and empowering those living with Alzheimer’s disease.

“We’ll continue to support our parents, stay strong as a family and do our part to raise awareness for everyone affected by Alzheimer’s disease.”

After John Elway helped lead the Broncos to the team’s first Super Bowl title, Pat Bowlen held up the Lombardi Trophy and famously declared, “This one’s for John!”

Now the team’s general manager, Elway returned the favor when the Broncos won their most recent Super Bowl, saying, “This one’s for Pat!”

Broncos fans would love to see the team with another Super Bowl trophy to salute Annabel Bowlen.

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