It’s crunch time in footy finals, but for rugby league legend Mario Fenech, that time of his life is not even a distant memory – he has little memory of it at all.
In a major 7NEWS Spotlight exclusive, the former Rabbitohs captain opens up to reporter Michael Usher about his devastating diagnosis, this Sunday on Channel 7.
Mario Fenech reveals he has early onset dementia, a disease he believes was caused by the numerous concussions and head knocks he suffered during his stellar NRL career.
The 60-year-old’s irreversible condition has now deteriorated to the point where he has virtually no memory left, and it won’t be long before he needs full-time care.
In a confronting interview, Mario is joined by his wife Rebecca, who for the first time speaks out about the diagnosis she calls the “silent, lonely killer”, describing how she and their children, Bonnie and Joe, are coping with the loss of the old Mario.
Also supporting Mario is his best friend of more than 30 years, former world champion boxer Jeff Fenech. Heartbroken by Mario’s decline, in a cruel twist Jeff faces his own battle with concussion trauma following years of punishing blows in the ring.
Neurologist Dr Rowena Mobbs, who leads the team of doctors caring for Jeff and Mario’s brain health, reveals how she is working on ways to safeguard future players from the damaging impact of contact sports.
The Fenech family hopes that by going public for the first time with their alarming revelations, they too can help protect future generations of sports-loving families from the long-term repercussions of head injuries.
Don’t miss this powerful report – 7.00pm* Sunday on Channel 7 and 7plus.
7NEWS Spotlight airs 7.00pm* Sunday on Channel 7 and 7plus
NOTE: 7NEWS Spotlight will air after the 2022 Charles Brownlow Medal Count in VIC/SA/WA. Please check local guides for details.
Just watching this powerful story on Mario it’s really disturbing and sad he was a champion on the field and off but the real champion in this story is his wife and good mate Jeff Fenech good luck to you Mario
What a legend Mario Fenech. I am disgusted in the way Fatty Vautin and the others treated you. So typical of the arrogance and the way people see themselves. I hope your leadership and the sharing of your story inspires younger generations of footy players. Thank you for your community service and all the very best in your journey ahead.
Hi I missed the show, is there another time when a replay would be on?
Hello Suzanne, you can catch up on this episode via the 7plus app or website.
Wow
That was saddening for myself and family.
We have followed the Rabbitohs since forever.
We loved Mario both on and off the field. He is a legend. Mario and family deserve the respect and support of the club, his team mates and and all true South Sydney fans.
I am particularly impressed with his embracing his son’s choice, in such a “blokes club” to find happiness with whoever he finds real love with, this being his husband Matt.
It takes courage to speak the truth.
Courageous he has always been. Clearly his wife family, best mate Jeff and wife are just as Courageous.
Good to see Ian Roberts in this story too.
He too stood up fearless of Judgement.
Real men speak their truth without fear.
These people are true champions.
Sending love, gratitude and hope.❤🙏
There are a few ex players and commentators who may wish to salve their souls by helping out the Falcon, where are the MOL in this?