Tom Coughlin shares heartbreaking update on his wife, Judy
New York Giants fans are extremely familiar with Judy Coughlin, the lovely wife of Tom Coughlin who wore an ear-to-ear smile any time she made an appearance.
Whether it was bringing treats to Giants players, participating in Jay Fund Foundation events or even appearing in documentaries about Tom’s time in East Rutherford, Judy always manifested positive energy.
But Judy has been noticeably absent for the past year-plus and Tom has finally decided to explain why.
In a heartbreaking piece published in New York Times, Tom reveals that Judy has been diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy — a brain disorder that is incurable.
“Our hearts are broken. Judy has been everything to our family. For the past four years, we’ve helplessly watched her go from a gracious woman with a gift for conversation, hugging all the people she met and making them feel they were the most important person in the room, to losing almost all ability to speak and move,” Tom wrote.
“She used to enjoy planning family get-togethers, going for morning walks and caring for her rosebushes; however, those activities are but distant memories. Her days are now filled with lying in bed, watching the Hallmark Channel, sitting in a wheelchair in the sun and receiving round-the-clock care. And what’s worse, she is trapped inside a body that will not allow her to be the person she was.”
Tom has taken on the role of full-time caregiver — a role he had not intended to play and one he has struggled to adjust to.
But Tom has stayed true to his wedding day promise. He remains by Judy’s side doing all he can to comfort the love of his life while battling with the reality of their current situation.
“Taking care of Judy is a promise I made 54 years ago when she was crazy enough to say ‘I do,'” Tom added. “I do want the players I coached in college and in the N.F.L. who thought all my crazy ideas about discipline, commitment and accountability ended when they left the field to know that is not the case. The truth is that is when those qualities matter most. A friend said we don’t get to choose our sunset, and that’s true, but I am so blessed to get to hold Judy’s hand through hers.”
The thoughts, prayers and love of Giants Nation are with Tom and Judy. She was as much a part of the team as he was and holds a special place in the hearts of millions.
