Former National Football League star Chris Johnson, celebrated for his exceptional speed and performance, has disclosed that he has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The revelation marks a new and challenging chapter for the athlete, who is 40 years old.
During his time in the NFL, Johnson was a formidable presence on the field, particularly as a running back for the Tennessee Titans. In his second professional season in 2009, he achieved a remarkable milestone by rushing for over 2,000 yards, a feat that solidified his status as one of the league's elite. His outstanding performance that year earned him the Offensive Player of the Year award and his first of three consecutive Pro Bowl selections. He played in the NFL from 2008 to 2017, also having stints with the New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals.
Speaking on "Good Morning America," Johnson shared details of his diagnosis, noting the surprising absence of a family history of the condition.
"There's no history of ALS in my family," Johnson stated. "My doctors believe my case is what's called sporadic ALS, which is actually how the vast majority of ALS cases happen. That's one of the reasons this disease can be so shocking. It can happen to someone who never expected it."
He recounted the initial symptoms, which included a noticeable weakening in his right hand and a diminished grip strength. The swift progression of the illness has been particularly alarming for him.
"It's continued to progress much faster than I ever imagined. I want people to understand just how quickly ALS can attack your body," he explained. "Just over a year ago, I was picking up my 7-year-old daughter so she'd make a wish with her birthday cake. Today, I couldn't do that."
Understanding Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS, is a severe and progressive neurodegenerative disease for which there is currently no cure. According to the ALS Association, the condition progressively deteriorates the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement. This leads to the brain losing its ability to initiate and control muscle movement. Individuals affected by ALS gradually lose their capacity to perform essential functions such as walking, talking, eating, dressing, writing, and swallowing, ultimately impacting their ability to breathe.
Despite the profound challenges presented by his diagnosis, Johnson expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from his loved ones. He specifically mentioned his wife, Brittany, and his family as providing him with a "reason to keep going" in his fight against the disease.
