Former NFL running back Chris Johnson has announced he has been diagnosed with ALS, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Johnson, who was a prominent player in the league, shared his condition in an interview, explaining that the disease has progressed to a point where he now communicates with the assistance of a device controlled by his eyes. His voice was recorded shortly after his diagnosis to enable the machine-generated speech to sound like him.
Johnson described the onset of his symptoms, noting a weakness in his right hand. He initially observed that his grip felt different and he was not as strong as he had been previously. His wife, Brittany, initially thought these symptoms might be related to a pinched nerve from his football career. However, continued testing led to the ALS diagnosis.
The Impact of ALS and Johnson’s Advocacy
Johnson emphasized the rapid progression of the disease, stating, "I want people to understand just how quickly ALS can attack your body." He recounted that just over a year ago, he was able to pick up his seven-year-old daughter for her birthday, an action he can no longer perform. Despite the physical challenges, Johnson stressed that his mind remains sharp and that the disease has not changed who he is as a person. He stated, "Your mind stays sharp. People sometimes look at the physical disability and assume you’re not still the same person inside. I still think the same. I still dream. I still love my family. My body just doesn’t cooperate."
His case is considered "sporadic ALS," which accounts for the majority of ALS diagnoses and occurs randomly without a known family history of the disease. Johnson revealed that doctors initially informed him about medication that might extend life by a few months and advised him to "get our affairs in order." However, after seeing a doctor on television, he sought experimental treatments that could advance research.
Johnson played in the NFL from 2008 to 2017, spending time with the Tennessee Titans, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals. He was a dominant force, particularly in his second season with the Titans in 2009, when he rushed for 2,006 yards. That year, he also set a record with over 2,500 yards from scrimmage and was named the NFL Offensive Player of the Year. He made three consecutive Pro Bowl appearances during his career.
A Continued Fight for Awareness and Research
Johnson has chosen to go public with his diagnosis with the hope of assisting others. He expressed that if sharing his story helps even one person receive an earlier diagnosis, inspires more research, or offers hope to another family, then it is worthwhile. He remains determined in his fight against ALS, noting that while there is currently no cure, there is increasing research, clinical trials, and promising ideas. He finds hope in the efforts of doctors and researchers, stating, "As long as they’re fighting for people with ALS, I’m going to keep fighting, too."
The ALS Association describes amyotrophic lateral sclerosis as a progressive disease where the brain loses connection with muscles, leading to a gradual loss of ability to walk, talk, eat, dress, write, swallow, and eventually breathe. Johnson credits his family, including his wife Brittany, for providing him with a reason to persevere.
Johnson’s career highlights include being a first-round pick in 2008 and achieving nearly 12,000 yards from scrimmage over his 10-year tenure in the NFL.
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Source: foxnews.com
