BOSTON -- New England Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi may be released from Massachusetts General Hospital Friday after suffering from a minor stroke.
The 31-year-old football star is said to be doing well by friends and relatives who have visited him. They say he is up and around and talking.
NewsCenter 5's Gail Huff reported that the Patriots have confirmed that Bruschi experienced a mild stroke, although it's unclear exactly what kind of stroke he had and he has asked that much of his personal medical information be kept private.
Bruschi's wife Heidi, however, clearly knew something was seriously wrong Wednesday night when she telephoned 911 from her North Attleboro home to ask for an ambulance.
According to transcripts of the 911 tapes, Heidi Bruschi said, "Hi, I need an ambulance to take my husband to Mass General."
"To Mass General. What's the problem?" the dispatcher asked.
"He's having blurred vision, numbness on the right side of his body," she responded.
"They won't be going to Mass General, I'll tell you that much," the dispatcher said.
"Really ... how do I? The doctor said ... can you come now?" she asked.
"If he's having blurred vision, we're going to Sturdy [Memorial Hospital]," the dispatcher said.
Heidi Bruschi eventually called a private ambulance to take her husband to Mass General, where some of the best doctors in the world specialize in treating stroke patients.
Thursday night the Patriots confirmed his diagnosis, releasing a statement that said: "It has been determined that these symptoms were the result of a mild stroke. Tedy is in good condition and as always his spirits are high. He is walking and talking normally and stressed that he would like to thank everyone for keeping him and his family in their prayers."
Around the hospital, meanwhile, patients and workers festooned windows with get well signs that read "Good luck No. 54," and "Bruschi Get Well 54." Bruschi is one of the most well-known and well-liked players on the championship team.
"Being a stroke, you gotta wonder if he's going to play again," one fan said.
"It's devastating for the Patriots," said another fan.
It has been reported that Bruschi may have suffered some bleeding in the brain. The extent of the problem will determine what Bruschi will do going forward and what kind of rehabilitation measures will be called for.
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Video:Gail Huff Reports On Bruschi's Condition
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