Former NFL special teams star, Steve Gleason, is the star of the moving documentary titled Gleason. Steve Gleason was made famous for the punt he blocked as a member of the New Orleans Saints against the Atlanta Falcons in the Saints’ first home game in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome since Hurricane Katrina destroyed the city. The blocked punt made Steve Gleason a hero in the city of New Orleans; in fact, a statue of him titled “Rebirth” was erected outside of the Superdome.

In 2011, Steve Gleason was diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, “is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord” (ALS Association).

The documentary consists of a number of video diaries he created for his son, Rivers. Steve Gleason chose to make the videos after being diagnosed with ALS so he could teach his son as much as possible in his limited time left. Faith, fatherhood, and the many strains ALS puts on a family are discussed throughout the film. Watchers gain insight into intimate moments Steve shares with his wife, father, and son.

Anyone looking to gain a new perspective or be moved should definitely watch the film. It is available on Amazon Video. Steve Gleason (@TeamGleason) is a great follow on Twitter as he offers inspirational words of encouragement on a regular basis.