Former Chicago Bears star and recent Pro Football Hall of Fame selection Steve McMichael has been hospitalized due to an infection and is in the intensive care unit, his family told ABC 7 Chicago. McMichael is improving from his condition as his family is hoping he can return early this week.
Wife Misty McMichael released a statement Sunday tat his family hopes to have him home as early as Tuesday.
“He’s one tough guy,” Misty McMichael said, via ABC7 Chicago. “He’s Mongo and his DNA is different! Keep those prayers coming! Thank you!”
McMichael, who has been living with ALS since his diagnosis in 2021, can no longer speak and requires around-the-clock care. He was brought to the hospital due to pneumonia fears and is now undergoing a blood transfusion, his family said in a statement Saturday. He also has MRSA, a bacterial infection.
“We are asking for your prayers to get Steve through this difficult time,” the family said. “Steve, his family and close friends believe in the power of prayer. Thank you.”
Earlier this month, several members of the historic ’85 Bears team were at McMichael’s side when it was announced he would be a part of the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s 2024 induction class.
The 66-year-old, who won Super Bowl XX with Chicago, was a five-time All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowler during 13 seasons played for the Bears. McMichael also spent one year with the New England Patriots as a rookie in 1980, and his final NFL season with the Green Bay Packers in 1994. He set a Bears franchise record with 191 straight games played, and ranks second in Chicago history with 92.5 sacks.Â
