In Pictures: 46-Year-Old American Football Safety Diagnosed With ALS Conquers the Hearts of NFL Fans

The NFL has witnessed many heart-wrenching stories and comeback tales in its life. Steve Gleason is one name that is seldom brought up when the fans reminisce old stories of the NFL. While his story may not have had a happy ending after being diagnosed with ALS following his retirement from the NFL. It is one that inspires the entire NFL community through the hardship that he has endured.

Earlier this year, Gleason marked 12 years of combative spirit as he continues to stand tall against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).  He has continued to be a pillar of inspiration among the New Orleans Saints community. The latest appearance highlights at the Saints add to the support he has offered while recovering from the ailment.

Former NFL DB inspirational at his old stomping grounds

As Gleason continues to battle the deadly disease, he has retained control of his life despite all the hurdles that come through, continuing his remarkable journey. Along the way, he has been rewarded with honors for his service to his community. He’d aid the technological advancements in ALS which would ultimately earn him a Congressional Medal of Honor. The former Safety has remained in touch with his old team.

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In the preseason that’s been going on recently, he’d join the Saints in making an off-pitch appearance. His appearance must have raised the morale of the team that won just 7 of their 17 games in 2022. The Saints’ Twitter handle would share his appearance with the fans, captioning, “The great @SteveGleason visited practice today #NoWhiteFlags” The fighting spirit of their former Safety’s appearance might spark a turnaround for their upcoming season.

ALS is one of the most deadly diseases in the world, with no known cure available at this time. While the nerves around the brain and spinal cord continue to be affected because of the rare neurodegenerative disease. Gleason has managed to hold his own against a disease of such ferocity over the last decade and more. He hasn’t been the sole NFL star afflicted with such a condition, with other former NFL players battling the disease.

Gleason wasn’t alone in battling ALS

The former Saints’ Safety may be one of the recent NFL stars to have been battling ALS, but he isn’t alone in that battle. Former stars and Champions have suffered a similar fate to Gleason, and some have fared worse. The likes of Rickey Dixon, Wally Hilgenberg, and O. J. Brigance are some of the few NFL stars to have been diagnosed with ALS.

Brigance has become a vocal activist of ALS in his efforts to curb the diagnosis of the deadly disease any bit he can. Dixon on the other hand, has taken up a coaching role as he continues to battle ALS and impact his community.

Gleason is a reminder to his community of the willpower that the fans and others hold within themselves. His appearance might just be the catalyst that could change the fortunes of the former SB champions.

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