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AEW Honors Tanea 'Rebel' Brooks After She Announces Terminal ALS

Doctors at the Mayo Clinic identified ALS during lung surgery after a long search for answers.

Overview

  • Brooks, 47, disclosed the diagnosis on Friday, May 1, in an Instagram video, calling it terminal and asking fans to pray for a peaceful journey.
  • AEW responded on Saturday's Collision with an on-air message from Tony Schiavone as fans at the Peoria Civic Center held signs of support.
  • She said Mayo Clinic doctors found the cause during preparation for lung surgery for masses on her lung, which explains her trouble walking and speaking.
  • Her medical path included a 2024 diagnosis of primary pulmonary lymphoma and a later functional neurological disorder that led her to use a walker.
  • ALS is a progressive disease with no cure, and typical survival is three to five years, which signals rising care needs and sustained community support.