The Painful Reality of Shingles: A Personal Battle for Brendan Fevola and His Dad
AFL legend and radio host Brendan Fevola has bravely opened up about a health battle that shook him to his core. In an exclusive interview, Fevola revealed the excruciating pain of shingles, a virus that struck him during the prime of his football career.
Known for his resilience on the field, Fevola admits that shingles brought a level of agony he couldn't ignore. "The pain was unbearable," he shared with 7NEWS. "I've had numerous surgeries, but shingles ranked among the worst pains I've ever felt."
But here's where it gets controversial... Fevola's story isn't unique. His father, Angelo, also battled shingles while managing rheumatoid arthritis. Angelo's experience highlights the importance of early detection and treatment.
"It started as a small scab on my back, but it quickly worsened," Angelo recalled. "I wish I had known more about shingles earlier. The pain was debilitating, and I felt trapped in my own body."
And this is the part most people miss... Shingles is caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same culprit behind chickenpox. After chickenpox, the virus can lie dormant for years, reactivating along nerve pathways and causing intense nerve pain before a blistering rash appears.
Health experts emphasize the urgency of early treatment. Professor Tony Cunningham, Australia's leading expert in the field, warns that once the rash appears, there's a limited window for antiviral medications to be effective. "You've got about three days for medications like Valtrex and Famvir to work and alleviate the pain and rash," he explained.
The long-term impacts of shingles can be just as devastating, especially for those over 50 or with chronic illnesses. One serious complication is prolonged nerve pain that can persist for months or even years after the rash clears. "In 12% of people over 50, shingles can lead to prolonged pain and even depression, potentially leading to hospitalization and aged care," Professor Cunningham said.
Vaccination is a powerful tool in the fight against shingles. Professor Cunningham recommends the Shingrix vaccine, which is free for Australians over 65, offering strong protection against the virus.
The Fevolas have become ambassadors for Shingles Action Week 2026, sharing their stories to raise awareness and encourage early action. Brendan believes that speaking out is crucial to prevent others from suffering unnecessarily.
"Watching loved ones endure preventable pain is not something anyone should have to go through," Brendan, a two-time Coleman medallist, said.
Angelo's experience was equally eye-opening. "It's overwhelming and emotional," he shared.
Catch the full interview with Brendan Fevola and his dad, Angelo, on 7NEWS at 6 pm.
Shingles affects countless Australians, with the risk increasing significantly with age. Health authorities urge those over 50 and with underlying conditions to be vigilant for early signs, such as tingling, burning, or stabbing pain on one side of the body, and to seek medical advice promptly if a rash develops.
For more information on Shingles Action Week 2026, visit knowshingles.com.au.
