Grace Rolle has learned at least three relatives from different generations have suffered epileptic seizures, a common trait of the disorder.
Rolle takes 42 pills a week, and has been told by doctors that if he follows the treatment for five years, the risk of recurring seizures will be greatly reduced. There is no cure for epilepsy.
"It's made me appreciate a lot of things more. Especially football," Rolle said.
Proving himself
Until last season, Rolle was considered one of the most durable cornerbacks in the NFL. He missed only 12 games in his first nine seasons, the past three spent with the Ravens after starting his career in Tennessee. He earned a trip to the Pro Bowl in 2000.
Though Rolle's performance slipped in 2006, last season's performance proved something, even to himself.
"Being that I played against the Rams, Buffalo, San Diego and the Patriots with epilepsy, I think I showed I can still play," Rolle said. "I'm not worried about that. My goal is to finish my career with a ring and helping my team whatever way possible."
Dr. Julian Bailes, a nationally renowned brain surgeon at West Virginia University who has served as medical director for The Center for the Study of Retired Athletes, which has looked into post-concussion syndrome among former NFL players, said Rolle is at no added risk continuing to play with epilepsy.
"If it's under control, that doesn't mean they can't play," Bailes said last week.
Rolle, whose 2007 season ended after he suffered a shoulder injury in practice before the Colts game and later underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum, is looking forward to next season with a new coach, John Harbaugh, and his old defensive coordinator, Rex Ryan.
"The hunger is definitely there," said Rolle, who is expected to be a full-time starter next season. "I got to meet Coach Harbaugh. I like him. It was refreshing walking in the building. It was almost like you're going to a new team. I'm excited about that, also."
But one fear remains, coming from an opponent that can blindside him at any moment.
"I say my one fear is having one on the field, because I don't know when it could trigger, when it could happen," he said. "I've dealt with other injuries before. One thing is that, honestly, you can't be scared. I don't play with that fear, but deep down inside, that's my biggest fear."
don.markus@baltsun.com
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