Steve Gleason (Former NFL Player-ALS Activist)

 With NFL football season in full swing, I thought about writing another football story. But this one was very special to me because it involves someone who is struggling with a disability but still out there being an inspiration. His name is Steve Gleason and he suffers from ALS.

25 years ago, Gleason became a safety in the NFL for the New Orleans Saints and played in the NFL for eight seasons before retiring. The highlight of Gleason's career came in 2006 where he blocked a punt which led to a touchdown for the Saints.

What made that moment so special was it was the first game that the Saints were able to play in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina had devastated the city 21 months prior. His football career alone is inspirational because he made it in the NFL after going undrafted. In 83 games played, Gleason had 71 total tackles and two fumble recoveries.

Sadly, a few years after Gleason had retired from the game of football, he soon discovered that he had ALS and eventually be confined to a wheelchair and speak with his eyes with a special device.

But with that being said, to see what he has done with his personal tragedy has become such an inspiration to many people including myself. Seeing him be as strong as he is really inspires me in more ways than I can ever explain.

As someone who struggles with Cerebral Palsy and Scoliosis, it has had me in moments where I can be pretty depressing. But seeing Steve continue to live life like he does and continues to inspire others really puts a smile on my face and reminds me to keep going no matter how dark and depressing things my seem.

I am so proud to see when the Saints gave Gleason a Super Bowl ring in 2011. What I also found interesting was in 2015 Gleason was being honored on a Thursday night game when the Falcons when Michael Mauti, a linebacker for the Saints blocked a put that led into a touchdown. As they say, the Lord works in mysterious ways.

God Bless you Steve Gleason! Thank you so much for being an inspiration to us all! I hope and pray for you and family to find continued success in life.

Until Next Time!

God Bless and Be Safe Everybody! 🙏🙏🙏

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