Chris Johnson can no longer lift his daughter. He cannot hold a cup. The former NFL running back, once known as CJ2K for his blazing speed, now communicates through a device that tracks his eye movements. In a devastating interview with Michael Strahan on Good Morning America, Johnson revealed he was diagnosed with ALS at 39 years old.
The 40-year-old Titans great first noticed weakness in his right hand. Doctors confirmed his worst fear, offered medication that might extend his life by a few months, and advised him to get his affairs in order.
Johnson refused to accept that prognosis. He reached out to ALS expert Dr. Merit Cudkowicz after seeing her interview on GMA. Now he takes three medications to slow the disease and participates in therapy to reduce inflammation. But the progression has been brutal.
“I still think the same. I still dream. I still love my family. My body just doesn’t cooperate,” Johnson said. His wife Brittany, has become his primary caregiver. He recorded his voice shortly after diagnosis so technology could preserve his ability to speak.
Johnson broke the NFL record with 2,509 yards from scrimmage in 2009. He made three Pro Bowls. Now he fights a different battle, one he is determined to win, even if his body cannot keep up.
