Hundreds of fans and media braved the elements at Newton High School to take in the Team Gleason vs. Wounded Warrior Amputee Flag Football game. For those unfamiliar with Newton High School, it is the former high school of all three Manning brothers, who are native to New Orleans. It was only fitting that the eldest Manning, Cooper, made the trip to emcee the opening festivities.
Though Cooper was certainly entertaining, all eyes were on the man of the hour, Steve Gleason. Gleason, a former New Orleans Saint, was diagnosed with ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s Disease in (2011). Steve briefly spoke to the packed house that filled up the famous local high school. It is the mission of this event, in conjunction with the Wounded Warrior project to raise awareness to find a cure for this crippling disease. The motto of “No White Flags,” is something that the athlete and wounded military men on hand really take to heart.
By focusing on the athletic competition, the athletes and celebrities on hand are able to shed some positive light on a negative circumstance. Yet even in his condition, Steve is still able to inspire the New Orleans community, and the rest of the world. It is the mission of leading companies and Gleason to eventually find a cure for ALS so that those who are diagnosed with this life-altering disease can live a better and longer life.
To learn about ALS or Steve Gleason and his mission, visit his website at http://www.teamgleason.org/about/
To learn more about the Wounded Warrior Project and their mission, visit http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org
