Chicago Bears legendary linebacker Dick Butkus has reached out to his former teammate Gale Sayers, who is battling dementia.

The 76-year-old Sayers has been living with the condition for five years now. Bears fans gave him a thunderous ovation at the kickoff of the team's 100th anniversary celebration on June 7. Butkus told NBC Chicago on Friday Sayers' situation is “a tough thing.”

“That's a tough thing. I call and check on him frequently, and it's a sad deal. You've just got to be thankful with what you've got.

I've got my problems with neuropathy and my balance. But I've got no pain. At least I still know who I am. I'm happy about that.”

The Athletic's Dan Pompei (via SI.com's Khadrice Rollins) described Sayers' dementia as “severe.” His wife, Ardie, and several caregivers are assisting him.

Despite his condition, Sayers made the two-hour trip from his home in Wakarusa, Ind. to Rosemont, Ill. for the festivities on Friday. According to Rollins, “Sayers recently fell and hit his head at his home.” Fortunately, X-rays revealed no damage.

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Sayers suited up for the Bears from 1965 to 1971. A four-time Pro Bowler, Sayers ran for 4,956 yards and scored 336 points for the Bears during his illustrious seven-year career.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Sayers in 1977. At the time, he was just 34 years old. SI.com confirms Sayers “remains the youngest player ever to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.”

Here's wishing the great Gale Sayers the best in the biggest battle of his life.