AIKEN, S.C. (AP) - Former Chicago Bears defensive lineman William "The Refrigerator" Perry remains hospitalized in South Carolina.
Aiken Regional Medical Center spokeswoman Melissa Summer said Wednesday that Perry is in serious condition. The 46-year-old Perry has been hospitalized to deal with complications from Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a chronic inflammation disorder of the peripheral nerves.
Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a rare condition that occurs when immune system cells mistakenly attack nerve cells that support the muscles. Symptoms include weakness or tingling in the legs, which may spread to the arms and upper body. In the most severe cases, GBS can lead to paralysis and death.
Perry's nephew, Purnell Perry, said Tuesday that his uncle was admitted more than a week ago but was expected to recover. A man who answered the phone Wednesday at Purnell Perry's home in Aiken said he couldn't comment on the football player's hospitalization.
The 300-pound plus defensive tackle played for the Bears' 1985 Super Bowl team, and helped lead Clemson to the 1981 national championship.
