Sources familiar with Frawley’s case indicated that his CTE was severe and that an attorney working for Anita Frawley, Danny’s wife, had taken steps to hide the contents of the brain analysis.
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This is only the second case of CTE posthumously diagnosed in an Australian soccer player. In February of this year, scientists at the Australian Sports Brain Bank announced that they had found the disease in the brain of the legendary Graham ‘Polly’ Farmer.
CTE, caused by repeated concussions, has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease, depression, anger, and problems with aggression.
Anita Frawley told him Herald Sun. She wanted to save other families from similar problems that arose from repeated head trauma.
“Our hearts would break when others go through the emotions we went through,” she said.
“This is a problem for the community, it is not about a specific sport or sports, we need more research to diagnose and support people living with the disease.”
Anita said Frawley, who was 56 years old when he died, had experienced depression for many years.
“His struggles for mental health and his strong advocacy for mental health problems were well known,” she said.
“As his wife for over 30 years, I had a strong suspicion that there was more going on with Danny than simple depression.
“I am very grateful for the work of the Australian Sports Brain Bank in shedding light on this disease. We want to prevent other families from going through what we have done.
“We are waiting for the coroner’s report to be published before any further comments. However, I want people to be informed of the problem now and not wait as I believe it can help families understand the problems. “
Anita did not respond to a request for further comment on Monday evening.
The AFL had been made aware of the Frawley diagnosis but declined to comment on his case.
If you or someone you know needs assistance, call Lifeline at 131 114 or Beyond Blue 1800 512 348.
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