
Former NFL player Steve Gleason was honored with the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage at the 2024 ESPY Awards on Thursday. Gleason, a former New Orleans Saints safety, has been battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) since his diagnosis in 2011. The 47-year-old received a standing ovation as he was wheeled on stage at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, introduced by former teammate Drew Brees.
Gleason expressed his gratitude for the award, calling it a 'sublime honor' and reflecting on the meaning of courage. He shared his personal journey with ALS, emphasizing the importance of support from family, community, and caregivers in his battle against the disease.