AVENTURA , Fla. (WSVN) — Don Shula, the Hall of Fame inductee and former head coach of the Miami Dolphins, is on the road to recovery two days after being rushed to the hospital for breathing problems.
According to Shula’s wife, the 86-year-old was rushed to the emergency room at Aventura Hospital, Monday night, due to sleep apnea, a disorder that disrupts breathing during slumber. The disorder is especially dangerous for someone his age.
Shula’s wife, Mary Anne Shula, released a statement Tuesday, which read, "Coach Shula has been admitted to the hospital due to fluid retention and sleep apnea. The family is looking for a speedy recovery."
"It can be seen at any age," said Dr. Jeremy Tabak, who did not treat Coach Shula. "It becomes more common as people get older. It has serious health consequences, but fortunately there is good treatment, and in the right hands, people can learn how to manage their disease."
Shula is being kept in the hospital for observation as a precaution, say sources, though there have been some media reports that say he was discharged. According to his family, he is alert and in good spirits.
Shula’s spokesperson, Carrie LaNoce, released another statement saying, "Coach has been entertaining staff with jokes and we expect him to be home very soon."
He is the most successful coach in NFL history, winning two Super Bowls with the Dolphins and six NFL Coach of the Year honors.