Steve Gleason — SPARQNOW

At-a-Glance

Founder of Team Gleason and Answer ALS.
Recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal.
Helped pass two laws related to disabilities.
Innovated and helped create new technologies for people with ALS and other disabilities.
Played for the New Orleans Saints from 2000-2008.
Subject of the acclaimed film 'Gleason'.

Biography

Steve Gleason is widely recognized as the founder of Team Gleason and Answer ALS. A former professional football player, he played for the New Orleans Saints from 2000 to 2008. He is particularly remembered for his blocked punt during the reopening of the Louisiana Superdome after Hurricane Katrina.

In January 2011, Gleason was diagnosed with ALS.