Former Wapato Wolves, Washington State Cougars and Seattle Seahawks standout Dr. Dan Doornink is currently hospitalized battling COVID-19.

The shocking news was confirmed and revealed by his wife, Sharon, on a social media post on Facebook last Wednesday (August 25).

In the post, Mrs. Doornink says, "Dear friends, I decided I would post a request for prayer for my dear husband, Dan. He is hospitalized fighting Covid. He has had an autoimmune blood disorder for several years, which complicates his body fighting this Covid Virus. We trust in our good God and Savior Jesus Christ, no matter what happens, but would appreciate you joining us in prayer. The Body of Christ is an amazing gift to us as believers.....it is such an encouragement in times like these. Share with anyone!"

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Update on the status of Dr. Dan Doornink as he fights the coronavirus

She then added an addendum to the original post which reads:

"UPDATE: Dan is still fighting! Please continue to pray to Our Almighty God for his recovery. Your prayers and kind wishes are very appreciated. We, his family, will praise our God, no matter the outcome.......thank you Jesus that you love Dan even more than we do. We pray for healing and mercy."

Doornink, who turned 65 in February, was drafted by the New York Giants in the 7th Round of the 1978 NFL Draft. After spending his rookie season with the G-Men, he was shipped back home to the Seattle Seahawks where he played from 1979-1985.

His brightest moment was probably in a 1984 playoff game in the Kingdome where he subbed at tailback for the injured Curt Warner. He rushed for 123 yards on 27 carries leading the Hawks to a Wild Card Round victory over former AFC West rival Los Angeles Raiders.

The moment that many of us from his hometown in Yakima might remember was his exhilarating 80-yard touchdown run on Monday Night Football against the San Diego Chargers back in 1981. While officially an 80-yard reception, Doornink caught a swing pass from Quarterback Jim Zorn on his own 11 before zig-zagging though the defense for the score and, in reality, about 110 yards!

You can see the replay at the beginning of this clip where legendary television broadcaster Howard Cosell calls Doornink a "reject".

Following his playing days, Dornink earned the moniker "Doctor Dan" when he went into practice as a physician in Yakima.

Our most fervent thoughts, prayers and well-wishes for a full recovery to "Dr. Dan" Doornink from all the 12s around the world!

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