ALS Challenge Revival
Former NFL Star Chris Johnson Battles ALS, Asks for Ice Bucket Challenge Revival
Former NFL running back Chris Johnson announced Monday that he has been diagnosed with ALS, the devastating neurological disease also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Just two days later, he called on fans and supporters to bring back the Ice Bucket Challenge — a viral fundraising trend that went dormant after its massive 2014 moment. Missoula Independent reported that Johnson made the announcement following an interview with former New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan.
Johnson, best known for his blazing speed as a running back, is now asking the public to help fund ALS research by reviving one of the most successful viral campaigns in internet history. The challenge first swept social media in the summer of 2014, raising over $115 million for the ALS Association in just eight weeks.
Chris Johnson Goes Public With ALS Diagnosis
Johnson revealed his diagnosis in a sit-down interview with Michael Strahan. The conversation marked the first time Johnson spoke openly about his condition. Tulsa World reported that Johnson urged supporters to revive the Ice Bucket Challenge in the wake of the announcement. His decision to go public quickly drew widespread attention from the sports world and beyond.
ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It gradually takes away the ability to move, speak, and breathe. There is currently no cure. Most people diagnosed with ALS live only two to five years after symptoms begin.
The Ice Bucket Challenge Returns After a Decade
The original Ice Bucket Challenge exploded across social media in the summer of 2014. Millions of people — including celebrities, athletes, and politicians — filmed themselves dumping buckets of ice water over their heads. The campaign raised $115 million for ALS research in roughly eight weeks. Then it faded away almost as fast as it came.
Johnson is now asking the challenge to come back. Post-Star reported that he has urged fans to participate and spread awareness once again. With social media bigger than ever, supporters and sports figures have already begun responding to his call online.
Johnson's NFL Career Made Him a Household Name
Chris Johnson spent most of his NFL career with the Tennessee Titans. In 2009, he became just the sixth player in NFL history to rush for more than 2,000 yards in a single season. He finished with 2,006 rushing yards that year, earning him the nickname "CJ2K." He later played for the New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals.
Johnson's diagnosis puts him among a number of former NFL players who have faced serious neurological conditions after retirement. His willingness to speak out puts a high-profile face on a disease that still has no cure — and gives his campaign to revive the Ice Bucket Challenge added urgency.
What the Ice Bucket Challenge Funds Have Accomplished
The 2014 campaign did more than raise money — it helped fund real breakthroughs. Donations from the original challenge helped researchers identify the NEK1 gene, one of the most common genetic contributors to ALS. That discovery, announced in 2016, marked a major step forward in understanding the disease.
Researchers and advocates say continued funding is critical. ALS remains difficult to treat, and developing new therapies takes years of work and hundreds of millions of dollars. Johnson's push to restart the challenge comes at a time when public attention on ALS research could translate directly into life-saving science.
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