Ryan Clark discusses life-threatening battle with sickle cell anemia

Ryan Clark, former NFL player and current ESPN analyst, recently shared a harrowing account of his battle with sickle cell anemia and the pivotal support from his wife, Yonka. Speaking on Daniel Cormier’s podcast, Clark emphasized his wife's role in his recovery during a life-threatening medical crisis after being diagnosed with a spleen complication during a game. His illness significantly impacted his career, resulting in the removal of his spleen and gallbladder. Clark and Yonka's relationship, which began in college at Louisiana State University, has been marked by mutual support, especially during challenging times. Clark also founded Ryan Clark’s Cure League in 2012, focusing on raising awareness and funding for sickle cell-related medical research.

• 11:41 PMYahoo Sports — “Would Not Be Alive”: Ryan Clark Reveals Almost Losing His Life if Not for Wife After Sickle Cell Anemia Diagnosis