Power of Caring
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Hunter back home

Hall of Fame pitcher released from hospital Saturday

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Posted: Tuesday September 07, 1999 11:29 PM

GREENVILLE, N.C. (AP) -- Hall of Famer Catfish Hunter is back at his Perquimans County farm following his release from a hospital, four weeks after a fall on concrete steps.

The 53-year-old Hunter, who has Lou Gehrig's disease, was released Saturday from Pitt County Memorial Hospital in Greenville after he recovered faster than doctors anticipated, said the Rev. Keith Vaughan, a family spokesman.

Hunter hit his head on the steps at his home on Aug. 8. Hunter was unconscious for several days at the hospital and gradually improved from critical condition to fair, which was his condition when he was released.

"It's about the same as when he was in the hospital," Vaughn said Tuesday. "We're very glad to have him home."

Hunter, who pitched for 15 years in the major leagues, was diagnosed last year with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a gradual irreversible deterioration of the muscles.

Hunter retired to his native northeastern North Carolina in 1979 after winning 224 games, including a perfect game. He won five World Series rings while playing for the Oakland Athletics and New York Yankees.

 

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