Renowned ALS Advocate and Former NFL Star Steve Gleason: A Tale of Resilience Amidst a Storm
Steve Gleason Recovers from Health Scare During Hurricane Francine
Steve Gleason, a former safety for the New Orleans Saints and a vocal advocate for ALS, is currently in stable condition and recovering in a local hospital, following a health scare earlier this week, as per Clare Durrett, his publicist. Gleason was rushed to the hospital after showing symptoms of a dangerously high fever and critically low blood pressure. This incident occurred in the aftermath of Hurricane Francine, a Category 2 storm that hit near Morgan City, Louisiana, with nearly 100 mph winds.
Hurricane Francine’s Impact on Louisiana
The storm left nearly 390,000 residents of Louisiana without power, and caused significant street flooding in the New Orleans area and its surroundings. Despite the challenging conditions, emergency services were able to provide immediate care to Gleason, who was rapidly deteriorating due to his condition. Durrett expressed her relief, stating, “They promptly stabilized him and transported him to Ochsner. He continues to receive treatment there, and we are optimistic about Steve’s recovery.”
Gleason’s Gratitude Amidst the Storm
A heartfelt update from Gleason’s official X account thanked the first responders and the hospital staff for their care and efforts. Gleason, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2011 and now requires a ventilator for breathing, communicates through a special tablet attached to his wheelchair, using his eyes.
In a message shared by his team, Gleason stated, “ALS is a hurricane of a disease. In the midst of Hurricane Francine, amidst power outages and unreliable phone service, the ALS storm made landfall. I’m grateful for the overwhelming love and support from everyone. Celebrate this opportunity to be alive and breathing. Much love – SG.”
Gleason: A Renowned Athlete and Advocate
Known for his seven-season tenure with the New Orleans Saints, Gleason is best remembered for his game-changing blocked punt against the Atlanta Falcons during the Saints’ first match post-Hurricane Katrina in 2006. Today, he channels his energy into raising awareness about ALS through his nonprofit, Team Gleason, which offers technology, equipment, and support services to others suffering from ALS.
Recently, Gleason received the prestigious 2024 Arthur Ashe Courage Award. Along with co-writer Jeff Duncan, he also penned his memoir, “A Life Impossible,” which he wrote using his eyes.
