An adolescent Michael Strahan did not dream of becoming a footballer. He wanted to be a professional cyclist, thanks to Lance Armstrong. And what did he need for that? A bike that was waaaaay outside the budget of the family! So someone had to take up the responsibility to hold him accountable. Here comes Louise- Michael’s mother. Together with her husband and Michael’s father Gene, she challenged her son to raise half the cost, and they’d put up the balance. By cutting lawns, working at the commissary, typing reports for schoolmates, and god knows what else, it took Mike but a few months to present Gene and Louise with his share. For years, that bike rested in Louise’s garage as a lesson of frugality that Louise taught Michael, and the son never forgot that.

Louise said, Mike continued to practice the no-nonsense principles they instilled in him: hard work, honoring your word, finishing what you start, speaking your mind while respecting others, and saving your money for a rainy day. Who won’t agree with that? Mike’s generosity and sense of community are well known: he helps out several charities, was one of the first sports stars to contribute large sums to the 9/11 fund, and is also at the forefront of the NFL, speaking out about gay rights. “One thing I like about him is that even with all this success, it didn’t change his personality – he’s still the same Michael he always was. Everyone says that about him,” said the proud mother. Ask her, does he take care of them, and she says, “Oh, yes!”, with twinkles of that pride. And how does he do that? Hear from Micheal himself.

“Before I was in the NFL, I told my parents that if I ever made it, I would buy them a house. Ten years later, when I wanted to fulfill my promise, I didn’t put a price limit on finding their dream house. My parents didn’t have an extravagant lifestyle, but I also didn’t expect it to be under $500,000,” Michael writes in his book. But his care did not end with that. Every year, Michael makes it a point to shower his love and respect on Louise on her special day, despite the elderly lady mostly staying away from public eyes otherwise. This year was no exception, as the 2007 Super Bowl champion came up with a touching message on his mother’s birthday.

A 15-season veteran of the New York Giants, Michael posted on his Mama’s birthday on IG, and this one was another emotional tribute to the woman who made him the man he is. “Happy Birthday to my favorite person….The funny, smart, and witty Louise Strahan!! Mom, i love you and hope you have the best day ever! I’m lucky to have you as my mom and love you endlessly! Your baby boy Michael ❤️,” he wrote in a post that shone with love like stadium beams. Such loving birthday messages for Louise have been customary for Michael.

Back in 2023, wishing his mother Happy Birthday, Michael had written, “I’m the luckiest man alive to call you my mom and I hope you feel as much love as you give on your Birthday!! Love you, Lou!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️” Last year also, there was a close-knit celebration on the special day.

Michael celebrated Louise’s big day with a sweet Instagram post that offered a glimpse into her festivities. “Happy birthday to my momma!! So much fun celebrating you! Momma got a spa day and a great meal!! Love you, Lou!! ❤️,” he captioned the post, which began with a video of himself and other loved ones, singing happy birthday to Louise around a table as she was presented with a cake topped with six candles.

“That’s a German chocolate cake!” Louise had noted of the sweet treat, which had the words ‘Happy Birthday Momma’ written on it in chocolate. The clip was followed by a smiling snap of Strahan and his mom posing with their arms around one another, as well as a shot of her gifts and flowers. As Mama Strahan grows one year older, and her son is right there beside her, these fans’ comments rounded up the special day nicely. Filled with heart emojis and little jokes, here’s what some of them had to say.

Fans shower love on Mama Strahan

Fans flooded Michael Strahan’s post to offer wishes and love for Louise Strahan and her infamous son. It is always so nice to have people gather to celebrate love and family, and this time was no exception. One fan, put it simply but beautifully: “Love a man who loves his Momma. Happy birthday, Mrs. Strahan❤️” Well that is quite true: A guy who knows how to love the one who has been his best friend is surely worth appreciation.

Then there was another fan, who couldn’t resist sharing a bouquet with his thoughts: “That was beautiful. Give her the flowers 💐 now. 👏👏👏” Accurate, because there’s no better time to show love than this. Momma Louise surely deserves all the flowers in the world..

Then there was this fan filled with glee, all ready to party it up!! “Happy Birthday Momma Strahan 🎉🎊🎉” As you can see from the enthusiasm in those emojis, it is obvious how much people love the Strahan family. Oh, and there’s some more bouquets for momma Louise, but this one had more to offer: “Happy 💐Birthday to her! (We are also in love with Tory & her deals! 🤭)” Now that’s relatable content. And who doesn’t love a deal and a reason to be happy?

The outpouring of love was too much when one fan said: “Happy Birthday Mrs. Strahan… I have been watching YOUR SON MICHAEL for MANY YEARS NOW… first the Giants, NOW on ABC… UNBELIEVABLE MAN!!!!!! So kind, sensible, GOOD LOOKING!!!!!! ENJOY YOUR BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!” I mean with so many wishes pouring in, it’s safe to say Mama Strahan is going to have a love-filled birthday.

But the love didn’t stop there. One thoughtful comment got that vibe of understanding, as they shared a personal insight on the recent issues Michael Strahan and his family has been having: “Happy birthday Michael. You don’t know me but as a retired teacher, I now get to watch GMA and your previous shows. I have such great respect for you and how you treat others. Have a great day! PS. Happy your daughter is doing well. I’ve experienced cancer and know how painful it is for family and friends. My respect grows as you continue to be positive. Thank you!”

What a perfect ending to this online party. And to Mrs. Strahan—Happy Birthday! Until next time, laughter, love, and German chocolate cakes with your family. This post of Michael Strahan’s, and these touching posts, is a proof that generosity and power touch more lives than once could count.