Former NFL record-holder Chris Johnson reveals ALS diagnosis at 40
Chris Johnson, the former Tennessee Titans running back who holds the NFL single-season scrimmage record, revealed on Good Morning America that he has ALS. The three-time Pro Bowler, now 40, says he wants to raise awareness and fight the disease.
A shocking diagnosis
On June 29, Chris Johnson appeared on Good Morning America alongside his wife Brittany and revealed he has ALS. Johnson, who turned 40 earlier this year, first noticed weakness in his right hand last year. Doctors later confirmed the diagnosis of sporadic ALS, the most common form, which occurs without family history. He now communicates using a device he controls with his eyes; the device synthesizes speech using his preserved voice.
There's no history of ALS in my family. That's one of the reasons this disease can be so shocking. It can happen to someone who never expected it.
One of the NFL's greats
Johnson entered the league in 2008 as a first-round draft pick of the Tennessee Titans. His speed was legendary, and in 2009 he joined the exclusive 2,000-yard rushing club with 2,006 yards. He also caught 50 passes for 503 yards, setting the single-season scrimmage record of 2,509 yards that still stands. That season earned him Offensive Player of the Year honors and the nickname CJ2K. Over his 10-year career with the Titans, Jets, and Cardinals, he rushed for 9,651 yards and 55 touchdowns, earning three Pro Bowl selections.
- Drafted by Tennessee Titans in first round
- Rushes for 2,006 yards; sets NFL record with 2,509 yards from scrimmage; named Offensive Player of the Year
- Retires from NFL after 10 seasons
- Inducted into Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame
- Diagnosed with ALS at age 39 after noticing weakness in right hand
- Announces diagnosis on Good Morning America
A team and a city united against ALS
Johnson's diagnosis echoes that of his former Titans teammate Tim Shaw, who has lived with ALS since 2014. Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk called the news "extremely difficult" and pledged the organization's support.
Nashville has become a focal point for ALS advocacy, highlighted by a record-setting state grant to Vanderbilt University's research centre earlier this year.Some people leave a mark on an organization that you just can't put into words. Chris Johnson is one of those people for us.
Choosing to fight
Johnson said he was inspired to seek out Dr. Merit Cudkowicz, the physician who treated actor Eric Dane before his death from ALS in February. He is now undergoing experimental treatment. Despite the prognosis, Johnson remains determined.
He hopes sharing his story will encourage early diagnosis and give hope to other families.First, I want people to know that I'm still me. ALS has changed what my body can do, but it hasn't changed who I am.
