Steve Gleason delivers a powerful Awards ceremony featured

Former New Orleans Saints safety Steve Gleason, who has bravely battled amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) since his diagnosis in 2011, was honored with the prestigious Arthur Ashe Award for Courage at the 2024 ESPY Awards on Thursday. The 47-year-old received a standing ovation as he was wheeled onto the stage at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, where he was introduced by his former teammate and NFL legend Drew Brees.

Gleason told Brees that he “loved him” and described the award as a “sublime honor.” Gleason then joked to the crowd, “I always love the opportunity to wear my tuxedo.”

Gleason went on to say that Arthur Ashe “exemplified courage by living with an open heart of humility, kindness and generosity, which united humanity.” Receiving this award, Gleason said, was “amazing.”

Reflecting on the meaning of “courage,” Gleason explained that to be courageous, “we must first experience loneliness, unworthiness or any of the faces of fear.” Gleason shared that he was told he only had three years to live after his diagnosis, and that he has the “wilderness of fear tattooed” all over him.

Gleason stated that this honor “represents some encouragement and triumph for the families currently living with ALS, as well as all the people living with disability or other illnesses, and all of you who experience fear or suffering.” He added, “If you have never experienced fear, isolation, or suffering, you can roll your sanctified a** right out of here. The truth is no human is immune from fear or adversity. Not even super athletes, royal princes or most holy saints.”

Gleason gratefully acknowledged the vital support of his family, community, and caregivers in sustaining his life.

Earlier this year, South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley was honored with the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance, recognizing her advocacy for cancer research and bone marrow donation. Staley’s sister was diagnosed with leukemia in 2020 and attended the awards ceremony.

In a powerful acceptance speech, Staley, who led the Gamecocks to a third national championship and a perfect 38-0 record last season, emphasized the “power to make a difference” and the importance of “standing up for what is right.” She continued, “You can inspire, motivate and help others. All it takes is the will to do so.”

However, the 54-year-old Staley expressed feeling “a little undeserving of this recognition,” noting that past recipients of the Jimmy V Award “have faced incredible challenges and proven themselves as true warriors.” She saw herself merely as “a spectator to such immense resilience.”

Elsewhere at the awards show, WNBA star Caitlin Clark took home the Best College Athlete – Women’s Sports and Best Record-Breaking Performance awards. NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes won Best Athlete in Men’s Sports and Best NFL Player, while Las Vegas Aces’ A’ja Wilson earned the Best Athlete in Women’s Sports award. Gymnast Simone Biles received the Best Comeback Athlete honor, and the South Carolina women’s basketball team was named Best Team.

Steve Gleason Delivers a Powerful, Inspiring Speech at Awards Ceremony

At an awards ceremony, former NFL player Steve Gleason delivered a speech that captivated the audience. Gleason, known for his courageous battle with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), spoke with a voice altered by his condition, yet his message of hope, resilience, and the power of community resonated deeply.

Honored for his work in raising awareness about ALS and supporting those affected by the disease, Gleason shared personal anecdotes and reflected on his journey from the football field to becoming a prominent figure in the fight against this devastating illness. His words demonstrated the importance of living life to the fullest despite the challenges one may face, and his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of ALS patients inspired the audience.

Throughout the speech, Gleason emphasized the critical need for continued research and support, urging the attendees to join him in his mission. His bravery, determination, and the strength he exudes in the face of adversity served as a poignant reminder of the impact one person can have on the world. Gleason’s speech left an indelible mark, showcasing the human spirit’s ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.