New Orleans Saints legend Steve Gleason has joined the revived ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, participating alongside author Brian Jeansonne, who also lives with the disease. The pair took the challenge in response to the recent revelation by former NFL running back Chris Johnson that he has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease.
Johnson, who played for the Tennessee Titans and was named Offensive Player of the Year in 2009, disclosed his diagnosis on 'Good Morning America,' stating he has been living with ALS for over a year. His announcement spurred the return of the Ice Bucket Challenge, which first gained widespread popularity in 2014.
Gleason and Jeansonne were filmed performing the challenge outdoors, seated in wheelchairs with towels over their laps. Jeansonne, speaking through a computer, stated they were both nude and would not flinch when buckets of ice water were poured over them. A family member quickly covered Gleason after the water was poured, partially exposing him.
The pair nominated several individuals to continue the challenge, including former Saints quarterback Drew Brees, current Saints QB Tyler Shough, former UFC champion Dustin Poirier, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, professional wrestler Rebel Brooks, and John Driskell Hopkins of the Zac Brown Band. Tyler Shough has since accepted the nomination.
Gleason, best known for his time with the Saints before his ALS diagnosis in 2011, is a prominent advocate for ALS awareness. He was instrumental in the 2014 Ice Bucket Challenge campaign, which raised over $220 million for research. Gleason is particularly remembered for blocking a punt in the Saints' first game at the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina. 
