Saints Hero, Activist Steve Gleason Nominated For George Halas Award

Yankee legend Lou Gehrig died of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis on June 2, 1941. The illness has come to bear his name in subsequent years. In those days, little could be done for an ALS patient. A diagnosis usually meant death within 3 years. There is still no cure. Saints hero Steve Gleason was diagnosed with "Lou Gehrig's Disease" in 2011. He's not going quietly into the night. Steve founded Team Gleason to raise awareness, and funding for ALS research. He ascended the Andes mountains in Peru, despite being wheelchair bound, and visited Washington to push for legislation benefiting persons with disabilities. The US senate passed the Steve Gleason Act on April 22nd of this year. Nola.com reports He's been nominated for the George Halas award, presented annually to the player, coach or employee who overcomes the greatest adversity. Saints quarterback Drew Brees was the 2007 recipient. The NFL will announce this year's winner on June 15th.