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View Full Version : R.I.P. Orlando Thomas



Joemailman
11-10-2014, 06:10 PM
http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/11851971/orlando-thomas-former-minnesota-vikings-player-dies-42

Former Vikings safety Orlando Thomas passed away at age 42 from ALS. At the time of his death he weighed 70 pounds.


The Vikings said in a statement that they were "deeply saddened."

"Orlando was an outstanding player for the Vikings for seven years, but more importantly, he represented the franchise and the state of Minnesota with the utmost dignity and class. While his outgoing personality made him a favorite among his teammates, Orlando's involvement in the community made him a favorite outside of Winter Park.

"Since 2007, Orlando fought this disease with tenacity and optimism. Throughout his difficult battle, he refused to allow ALS to define him, instead putting others' needs in front of his and focusing on making those around him smile. Orlando will always remain a member of the Minnesota Vikings family."

pbmax
11-10-2014, 09:13 PM
That is terrible. Have some experience with this disease and I am still surprised at how young it can take someone.

hoosier
11-11-2014, 07:34 AM
70 lbs?!? Wow, talk about wasting away. Very sad.

Zool
11-11-2014, 10:41 AM
No, he lost 70 pounds. Still bad but not insane.

"When Thomas played for the Vikings from 1995 through 2001, he weighed 225 pounds. When Thomas died, he was down almost 70 pounds, Bartelstein said."

hoosier
11-11-2014, 11:28 AM
I think we both read "down to 70 pounds." So he weighed 155, that is still quite a transformation.