Former Saints star and ALS advocate Steve Gleason is the 163rd person to receive the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award bestowed by Congress. During the ceremony, Congressman Steve Scalise called Gleason a true American hero for his tireless effort to help those with Lou Gehrig’s disease.
“Because of what you do now through Team Gleason to help others with diseases like ALS to achieve their full potential and of course you are the perfect personification of your motto ‘No White Flags,” said Scalise.
Gleason, who was diagnosed with A-L-S in 2011, says he accepts the Congressional Gold Medal on behalf the thousands of people and families affected by ALS and other disabilities.
Gleason calls on people to keep exploring, share weaknesses with each other, and compassionately collaborate to solve issues that are ahead.
“Our human potential is boundless if we can work to understand and solve each others problems and each others pain, compassionately then truly all things are possible,” said Gleason.
Gleason was diagnosed with ALS in 2011 and has led efforts to create technology to help ALS patients live longer and more fulfilling lives.
“There’s no person on earth with the strength, courage, passion and tenacity to overcome all obstacles and make the lasting impact that Steve has made,” said Saints quarterback Drew Brees.
