Former New Orleans Saints player, ALS patient Steve Gleason undergoes successful tracheotomy
Steve Gleason painfully communicates with his wife Michel Varisco his desire to answer questions from the audience during a press conference presentation as part of Super Bowl 2013 activities at the Earnest Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Wednesday January 30, 2013. The event presented by Team Gleason was designed to raise global awareness about ALS to ultimately find solutions and an end to the disease. Gleason used a innovative computer to form voice to talk to the audience. (Photo by Ted Jackson, Nola.com / The Times-Picayune) ((Photo by Ted Jackson, Nola.com)
Latest New Orleans Saints news
- Former New Orleans Saints player, ALS patient Steve Gleason undergoes surgery
Former New Orleans Saints standout Steve Gleason had a successful tracheotomy on Monday in New Orleans and was recovering from the procedure on Monday night, according to family and friends.
The surgical procedure widens the windpipe to aid breathing. It is common for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis as the disease gradually robs them of their ability to use their lungs.
"He is out of surgery and did well," said Clare Durrett, an associate executive director for his foundation, Team Gleason.
Gleason knew the surgery was an eventuality, Durrett said. Doctors suggested the procedure after Gleason was hospitalized on Sunday night with breathing and coughing issues.
Since being diagnosed with ALS on Jan. 5, 2011, Gleason has become a global leader in raising awareness of the disease and improving technology to help those stricken with it. He retired from the Saints in 2007 and continues to live in New Orleans with wife Michel and son Rivers.
The surgical procedure widens the windpipe to aid breathing. It is common for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis as the disease gradually robs them of their ability to use their lungs.
"He is out of surgery and did well," said Clare Durrett, an associate executive director for his foundation, Team Gleason.
Gleason knew the surgery was an eventuality, Durrett said. Doctors suggested the procedure after Gleason was hospitalized on Sunday night with breathing and coughing issues.
Since being diagnosed with ALS on Jan. 5, 2011, Gleason has become a global leader in raising awareness of the disease and improving technology to help those stricken with it. He retired from the Saints in 2007 and continues to live in New Orleans with wife Michel and son Rivers.
No comments:
Post a Comment