Finding Peace and Wisdom Within a Fragile Existence
by Steve Gleason and Jeff Duncan
WHAT IT’S ABOUT
In 2011, three years after leaving the NFL, Steve Gleason was diagnosed with ALS, a terminal disease that takes away the ability to move, talk, and breathe. Doctors gave him three years to live. He was thirty-three years old. As Steve says, he is now ten years past his expiration date.
His memoir is the chronicle of a remarkable life, one filled with optimism and joy, despite the trauma and pain and despair he has experienced. Writing using eye-tracking technology, Gleason covers his pre-ALS life through the highs and lows of his NFL career with the New Orleans Saints, where he made one of the most memorable plays in Saints history, leading to a victory in the first post-Katrina home game, uplifting the city, making him a hero, and reflected in a nine-foot bronze statue outside the Superdome. Then came his heartbreaking diagnosis. Gleason lost all muscle function, he now uses Stephen Hawking-like technology to communicate, and breathes with the help of a ventilator. This book captures Gleason and his wife Michel’s unmatched resilience as they reinvent their lives, refuse to succumb to despair, and face his disease realistically and existentially.
This unsparing portrait argues that a person’s true strength does not reside solely in one’s body but also in the ability to face unfathomable adversity and still be able to love and treasure life.
- Publisher : Knopf
- Published : April 30, 2024
- Hardcover : 304 pages
In his memoir co-written with Jeff Duncan, former NFL player Steve Gleason delves into various aspects of life. Don’t let the football aspect deter you if it’s not your cup of tea; the book delves into themes far beyond the realm of the gridiron.
Gleason caught my attention in the first chapter by sharing his current life. From there, we back up to his early family life, college experiences, dating, football career, honeymoon adventures, and aspirations for the future. And lots in-between.
His narrative is remarkably candid and captivating. One unforgettable moment is his honeymoon experience, evoking both cringes and smiles. The memoir is a multi-layered journey. His emotional response to being diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is truly poignant. It’s a testament to the emotional depth of the book that can leave readers grappling with their feelings.
What stands out the most is how Gleason and his wife candidly share their reactions to the diagnosis and navigate the challenges ahead. Their journey since the 2011 diagnosis, with the grim prognosis of a five-year life expectancy, is detailed with its highs and lows, showcasing what can be achieved despite limitations.
My Concern
A possible concern is that those uninterested in football may shy away from this book. I can’t stress enough how this book transcends sports. It’s a compelling read for everyone.
Final Thoughts
This memoir is a blend of so many things. It’s interesting, informative, inspiring, heart-wrenching, uplifting, honest, and sometimes filled with raw emotions.
The resilience shown by Steve and his family will make you reflect deeply on your own life. Whether or not you’re a football enthusiast, Gleason’s memoir is inspirational. It’s bound to leave you wondering about the human spirit and resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges.
Don’t hesitate to pick it up – you won’t be disappointed.
My thanks to the publisher for a #gifted copy. I was under no obligation to post a positive review.
What’s Being Said
“Steve and Michel Gleason have helped ease suffering and restore hope for countless families grappling with ALS. In the face of unrelenting adversity, they’re teaching us all what it means to show up and fight for others.” —Bill Gates
Gleason takes nothing for granted and courageously exposes the raw details of his journey, which are persistently grim but also moving and hopeful for others dealing with disabilities. A sobering, inspirational sports memoir grounded in inner strength and resiliency.” –Kirkus Reviews
ABOUT THE AUTHORS From Penguin Random House
ABOUT STEVE GLEASON
STEVE GLEASON played eight years for the New Orleans Saints and, in 2011, was diagnosed with ALS. Shortly after his… More about Steve Gleason
ABOUT JEFF DUNCAN
JEFF DUNCAN, a native of Louisville, Kentucky, is a sports columnist forthe New Orleans Times-Picayune and was a member of the team that… More about Jeff Duncan
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