Chicago Bears legend Steve “Mongo” McMichael is demonstrating positive progress and responding well to antibiotics in his battle against MRSA.
As per family spokesperson Betsy Shepherd, the expectation is for McMichael to be discharged later this week as he continues with antibiotic treatment.
“Steve is positively responding to the antibiotics, and his condition is getting better,” she stated. “We anticipate having him home on Tuesday with IV antibiotics. He’s incredibly resilient. He’s Mongo, and his genetic makeup is unique!”
McMichael was initially hospitalized due to a urinary tract infection, and subsequent diagnosis revealed MRSA. He underwent a blood transfusion as part of his treatment for these health issues.
Expressing gratitude for the support and belief in the power of prayer, Shepherd emphasized the importance of continued love and support for McMichael.
At 66, McMichael has been contending with ALS for three years. In August 2023, he was admitted to the ICU unconscious with sepsis and received treatment with two IV antibiotics. Later, he was diagnosed with pneumonia.
Despite these health challenges, McMichael received a significant honor, being elected to the 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame class earlier in the month. Part of the Seniors category finalists alongside Randy Gradishar and Art Powell, McMichael’s selection was announced at the NFL Honors, where his wife, Misty, accepted on his behalf in Las Vegas.
The selection committee, consisting of 50 members, narrowed down the Senior finalists from a group of 12 seniors. Each Senior finalist required at least 80% approval voting for induction, a threshold that McMichael successfully achieved.
The Bears also saw former players Devin Hester and Julius Peppers elected to the Hall of Fame as part of the Modern Era player group, further adding to the franchise’s Hall of Famers, which already led the league before this recent induction.