Former NFL star Chris Johnson reveals ALS diagnosis at 39

Key Points:

• Former NFL star and three-time Pro Bowl running back Chris Johnson revealed he was diagnosed with sporadic ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) last year at age 39, despite no family history of the disease.
• Johnson first noticed weakness in his right hand while in peak physical condition, initially thought to be related to his football career, but was later diagnosed with the degenerative neurological disorder that leads to paralysis.
• After his diagnosis, Johnson connected with Dr. Merit Cudkowicz, a leading ALS researcher, and began experimental treatments and clinical trials, which may have slowed the progression of his illness.
• The disease has progressed rapidly, requiring Johnson to use a speech-generating device with a recorded voice, but he remains determined to fight ALS for the sake of his wife and four children.
• The Johnsons are sharing their story to raise awareness about ALS and advocate for more research and early detection, emphasizing that while ALS has changed Johnson's physical abilities, it has not changed who he is.