Gleason's Punt: 20 Years of Rebirth and Resilience

Twenty years ago, Steve Gleason's legendary blocked punt in the Saints' return to the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina became a symbol of New Orleans' resilience. This pivotal play, now often called the city's "rebirth," also marked a significant moment in Gleason's personal life, though he didn't fully realize its impact until years later.

In 2011, five years after his defining football moment, Gleason was diagnosed with ALS. Against steep odds, he has lived well beyond the average life expectancy for the disease and remains a prominent figure in ALS awareness. His communication relies on speech synthesis technology, and he requires assistance for mobility and breathing, yet he describes his life as "miraculous."

Gleason's activism has earned him a Congressional Gold Medal. He finds solidarity with other NFL players battling ALS and highlights that players are at a higher risk for the disease. The impact of his 2006 play extends beyond sports, as many have credited his foundation's work with saving lives.

Further demonstrating his enduring spirit, Gleason is releasing a musical album titled "Rebirth." This project, featuring his poetry and local New Orleans musicians, draws heavily from his experiences since his ALS diagnosis, connecting his personal journey of survival and hope with the city's own revival.