A former NFL star born in Orlando announced he’s been diagnosed with ALS.Chris Johnson told ABC’s “Good Morning America” that he was diagnosed with the disease in 2025 at the age of 39.During the interview, Johnson said the diagnosis was unexpected because there was no family history of ALS.The disease has progressed very quickly, so Johnson now uses a speech-generating device to communicate. About ALS diseaseAmyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as ALS, is a nervous system disease that destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The nerve cells stop sending signals to the muscles, causing them to weaken. ALS symptoms vary from person to person, but typically begin in the hands or arms, legs or feet, or the muscles that control speech or swallowing.Over time, it can take away a person’s ability to walk, talk, eat and breathe. The diagnosis can take months or even years. Although there is no cure for the disease, new treatments help slow the progression of symptoms.
A former NFL star born in Orlando announced he’s been diagnosed with ALS.
Chris Johnson told ABC’s “Good Morning America” that he was diagnosed with the disease in 2025 at the age of 39.
During the interview, Johnson said the diagnosis was unexpected because there was no family history of ALS.
The disease has progressed very quickly, so Johnson now uses a speech-generating device to communicate.
About ALS disease
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as ALS, is a nervous system disease that destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The nerve cells stop sending signals to the muscles, causing them to weaken.
ALS symptoms vary from person to person, but typically begin in the hands or arms, legs or feet, or the muscles that control speech or swallowing.
Over time, it can take away a person’s ability to walk, talk, eat and breathe. The diagnosis can take months or even years.
Although there is no cure for the disease, new treatments help slow the progression of symptoms.