Former NFL star Chris Johnson is reviving the viral ALS Ice Bucket Challenge after revealing he is battling the fatal neurological disease himself.
The challenge became a global social media phenomenon in 2014, with millions of people dumping ice water over their heads to raise awareness and money for ALS research.
According to the ALS Therapy Development Institute, it raised $135 million in the United States and $220 million worldwide.
Johnson announced the campaign's return in an Instagram post Wednesday, two days after publicly revealing his ALS diagnosis on Good Morning America. He said he was inspired after watching former Utah basketball player Hunter Mecum complete the challenge in his honor.
"The support you've shown me over the last few days has meant more than I can put into words," Johnson wrote. "Years ago, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge united millions of people around one cause and helped change the fight against this disease. Today, I'm asking you to help me do it again."
Johnson challenged fellow former NFL stars Marshawn Lynch, LenDale White and Adam "Pacman" Jones to take part, later sharing videos of White and others completing the challenge.
The former Tennessee Titans running back revealed this week that he was diagnosed with ALS last year. Johnson, a three-time Pro Bowler, rushed for 2,006 yards in 2009, won The Associated Press NFL Offensive Player of the Year award and finished his 10-year career with the Titans, New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals.
