A Legacy Beyond the Gridiron
Twenty years after the New Orleans Saints returned to the Caesars Superdome following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, former safety Steve Gleason is being honored for his role in a moment that became an enduring symbol of the city’s resilience. During the Saints’ 2006 “Domecoming” game against the Atlanta Falcons, Gleason blocked a punt in the first quarter that led to a touchdown, a play immortalized by the “Rebirth” statue outside the stadium. As reported by WDSU, Gleason and his former teammate Curtis Deloatch were recognized as “Legends of the Game” during the 20th anniversary of that historic victory. The commemorations included a Rebirth parade from Lafayette Square to Champions Square, where Mayor Helena Moreno presented Gleason with a key to the city, highlighting his profound impact on the local community.
Life with ALS and Continued Advocacy
Gleason, who was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2011, continues to live with the progressive neurodegenerative disease. According to reports from Good Morning America and CBS Sports, he communicates using eye-tracking technology and relies on a ventilator to breathe. Despite the physical toll of ALS, which causes the loss of voluntary motor function, Gleason remains active in advocacy through his nonprofit, Team Gleason. The organization has raised over $65 million over the past 15 years to support those living with the disease and to fund critical research. Gleason, who became the first NFL player to receive the Congressional Gold Medal in 2019, noted that the visibility provided by his football career and that specific play helped build a platform that became a “lifeline” in his personal struggle.
“The truth I have to live with is this: The same play that helped New Orleans breathe again is a big reason I’m still breathing now,” Gleason said in his interview with ABC News. He reflected on the irony of his journey, noting that while his body has been significantly altered, his sense of purpose remains intact. “I’m still here,” he shared. “That still surprises some people. It does not surprise me as much as it used to.”
Expanding into Creative Expression
In addition to his advocacy, Gleason is marking the anniversary with the release of a 12-song album titled “Rebirth.” According to NOLA.com, the project features collaborations with numerous artists, including Marc Broussard and Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews. Gleason began working on the music last year, drawing on his own poetry to process his experiences with ALS, fatherhood, and his evolving relationship with his family. The album, recorded at Esplanade Studios, serves as another medium for Gleason to maintain his creative output despite the limitations imposed by his condition. Tracks such as “Soul is Invincible” and “Sonic Boom” have already been released, with the remainder of the album scheduled for episodic release throughout October. As he continues to advocate for the ALS community and navigate his own health challenges, Gleason remains a central figure in New Orleans culture, proving that his impact extends far beyond his time on the field.