SouthernWorldwide.com – The NFL community was taken by surprise on Monday with the announcement that Chris Johnson, a remarkable athlete who achieved the rare feat of rushing for over 2,000 yards in a single season, is battling ALS.
This news deeply affected Ryan Fitzpatrick, who shared a season with Johnson on the Tennessee Titans. Despite their brief time as teammates, their connection remains significant.
Fitzpatrick expressed his empathy for Johnson’s situation, stating that ALS is an incredibly challenging condition for both the individual and their loved ones. He acknowledged the immense frustration of a mind that remains sharp while the body begins to falter, extending his heartfelt support and well wishes to Johnson, his wife, and their family.
In a detailed social media post, Johnson highlighted the growing body of research suggesting a link between repeated head trauma and ALS. He pointed out studies indicating that NFL players are four times more likely to develop ALS compared to the general population.
Despite the increased awareness of these risks, Fitzpatrick shared his personal sentiment that he would willingly play football again. He believes that most players understand the inherent dangers involved. Fitzpatrick stated that football has enriched his life immensely, making it an experience he would readily repeat. He also expressed his happiness for his children if they wished to pursue the sport.
However, Fitzpatrick also reflected on the realities that come with aging and personal loss. At 43, he has experienced the passing of his mother five years ago, which has brought a greater awareness of life’s difficulties. He revealed that a close friend from high school was also diagnosed with ALS, giving him a firsthand understanding of the profound challenges faced by both the patient and those around them.
Fitzpatrick concluded that as one gets older, life inevitably presents various challenges that require navigation and adaptation, noting this as a difficult aspect of aging.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), for which there is currently no known cure, is a progressive disease that impairs the brain’s ability to communicate with the muscles. According to the ALS Association, individuals with ALS gradually lose the capacity to perform essential functions such as walking, talking, eating, dressing, writing, swallowing, and ultimately, breathing.
Chris Johnson, a prominent running back, had a distinguished career in the NFL from 2008 to 2017. He played for the Tennessee Titans, the New York Jets, and the Arizona Cardinals during his tenure in the league.
