Pat Summitt Faces Dementia Diagnosis And Twitter Reactions Show Support

Players, Colleagues and Fans Offer Support To Pat Summitt On Twitter

The news that legendary women's basketball coach Pat Summitt had been diagnosed with early-onset dementia sent a shockwave through the sports community.

The longtime women's hoops coach at the University of Tennessee is the matriarch of one of the most successful programs, regardless of gender, in all of collegiate sports. Already inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame, she crossed the 1,000 career victory threshold in 2009 and is held in the highest regard.

The diagnosis means that the 59-year-old Summitt may join the approximately six million people who already struggle with Alzheimer's Disease. True to her reputation as a hard worker and spirited competitor, Summitt intends to coach the Lady Vols for the 2011-12 season.

Although few have been able to pay as eloquent tribute to Summitt as Sally Jenkins of The Washington Post, who penned a poignant piece about her friend's ordeal, their have been words of encouragement and best wishes coming from all quarters.

Below is a collection of some of the most touching reactions on Twitter from those who know, love and respect Summitt:

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