New York – Baseball fans around the world were shocked and heartbroken to hear the news: Wade Boggs, a living legend of MLB and immortal icon of the New York Yankees, has just confirmed that the disease that has plagued him for a long time has returned.

“I thought I could get through it forever… but this time, I’m not sure I’ll get up again,” Boggs said, his voice shaking during a special announcement from his home in Florida.

A shock to the baseball world
Wade Boggs, 67, once hailed as a “hitting machine” with more than 3,000 hits, and a World Series winner with the Yankees in 1996, has been quietly battling a motor neuron disease for more than three years. After a long period of active rehabilitation, he had almost returned to normal life – until yesterday’s announcement.

“The pain came back. My left arm started to go numb, and I couldn’t hold a pen to sign autographs for fans like before,” he shared in tears.

“No one stays strong forever” – A very different Wade Boggs
Unlike the strong, calm image of the man who had fought steadfastly for 18 seasons, Wade Boggs this time appeared fragile and honest, talking about loneliness, fear and despair when facing the scythe of death again.

He also apologized to fans for keeping it a secret for many months, only deciding to go public when his illness progressed more seriously:

“I didn’t want to worry everyone. But I can’t pretend anymore…”

MLB community reacts
Immediately after the news, the New York Yankees sent a statement expressing “deep sadness and absolute respect” for their legend. Former teammates such as Don Mattingly and Derek Jeter also sent words of encouragement.

Fans flooded social media with the hashtag #StayStrongBoggs – wishing him the strength to overcome this second challenge.

Although the specific name of the disease has not been announced, a close friend revealed that Boggs is preparing to enter a special experimental treatment in Boston, where he began his professional playing career.

“If this is the last time I stand before you… remember that I am a guy who always fights – for the team, for the fans, and for myself,” – Wade Boggs, ending the announcement with a sentence that left the whole room silent.

Can the miracle happen again for Wade Boggs – a hero not only on the field? Send him your most sincere love and prayers.