Dan Marino Shares His Battle with Liver Disease on 64th Birthday
On September 15, the Miami Dolphins celebrated the birthday of one of their most iconic figures, Dan Marino. As he turned 64, the Hall of Fame quarterback opened up about a personal health challenge he has faced for years, shedding light on his diagnosis of a liver disease known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).
A Surprising Diagnosis
In a candid conversation with PEOPLE, Marino revealed that his journey began back in 2007 during a routine checkup. Feeling unusually fatigued, he initially attributed his exhaustion to a decline in his workout routine since his playing days. “I wasn’t really working out as much as I should,” Marino reflected, recalling the intensity of his training during his illustrious career.
However, the doctors had different news for him. After examining his condition, they informed him that he was living with MASH. “Those are the things I kind of noticed,” he shared. The diagnosis indicates a concerning accumulation of fat in the liver, leading to chronic inflammation and the potential for further liver damage. Once categorized under nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NASH), MASH is often linked to obesity, elevated blood lipids, and high blood sugar levels, according to medical experts.
Turning the Tide
Despite the daunting nature of the diagnosis, Marino learned that MASH is manageable and often reversible with lifestyle changes. The doctors emphasized the importance of weight loss and regular exercise as critical components of his treatment plan. “You gotta work out. You got to lose weight,” he recounted. Motivated to take control of his health, Marino enlisted the help of his former Dolphins teammate, Terry Kirby, for workouts at a local gym. His wife, Claire, also joined in the effort, participating in nightly walks and bike rides together.
Marino’s commitment to a healthier lifestyle included a significant dietary overhaul. He eliminated pizza, candy, and ice cream from his meals, opting instead for a Mediterranean diet recommended by his doctor. Regular checkups have become a part of his routine, and he is dedicated to ensuring that his condition remains stable. “My prognosis is getting better,” he noted, emphasizing the positive changes he has made.
A Message of Hope
Choosing to reveal his diagnosis on his birthday was not just a personal milestone for Marino but also an opportunity to raise awareness about MASH and encourage others facing similar challenges. “If you get diagnosed with fatty liver and MASH, doing the things you need to do, like I talked about — diet, working out — and staying consistent with it, that’s what our message really is,” he affirmed.
In addition to his health advocacy, Marino continues to play an active role within the Dolphins organization as a special advisor to CEO Tom Garfinkel. His journey serves as a reminder that resilience and determination can lead to positive outcomes, no matter the obstacles faced. As he continues to inspire fans both on and off the field, Marino’s story highlights the importance of addressing health issues head-on and maintaining hope for the future.
