​New Orleans Saints legend and ALS advocate Steve Gleason is once again rallying behind fellow former NFL star Chris Johnson, who recently revealed his own ALS diagnosis. Joining forces with New Orleans author Brian Jeansonne, who announced his ALS diagnosis in 2020, Gleason accepted the challenge this Wednesday, and Jeansonne shared the video on Instagram to help raise awareness.
The Ice Bucket Challenge, which surged to viral fame in 2014, involves dousing someone with a bucket of ice water to draw attention to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, and to raise funds for research and care. Gleason played a pivotal role in the campaign’s original surge, spearheading the Ice Bucket Challenge in 2014, a movement that ultimately raised more than $220 million for ALS programs and research.
In addition to his participation, Gleason and Jeansonne have extended the challenge to several other public figures tied to the Saints and beyond. They have urged current and former Saints quarterbacks Drew Brees and Tyler Shough to take part, as well as John Driskell Hopkins of the Zac Brown Band, professional wrestler Rebel Brooke (also known as Rebel Brooks), former UFC champion Dustin Poirier, and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. Shough has already accepted the challenge on Instagram, signaling continued momentum for awareness and fundraising.
This collaborative effort highlights the ongoing impact of Gleason’s advocacy and the power of social media in mobilizing supporters for ALS. By inviting well-known personalities and athletes to participate, the campaign seeks to broaden its reach, generate donations for ALS research, and provide education on the disease. The involvement of Chris Johnson’s diagnosis adds a personal and urgent connection to the cause, underscoring the reality that ALS can affect anyone, regardless of fame or athletic achievement.
As the movement progresses, fans and supporters can expect further updates and additional challenges as more public figures step forward to show their support. Gleason’s continued leadership in this cause demonstrates how sports figures and celebrities can collaborate to raise essential resources and attention for those living with ALS, while also encouraging broader public awareness about the disease and the ongoing need for research, treatment options, and patient support.