In May 2025, Chris Johnson, a former NFL running back, received a devastating diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at the young age of 39. This progressive neurological disease has since altered the lives of both him and his wife, Brittany Johnson, who has taken on the role of his full-time caregiver. The couple hopes their story will raise awareness about ALS and prompt discussions on the urgent need for effective treatments.
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Since his diagnosis, Johnson’s condition has necessitated extensive care. Brittany, also 39, has dedicated herself to caring for her husband, believing she is the best person for this challenging role. “My life has changed immensely as a caregiver,” she shared in a recent interview, noting that caring for Chris requires constant attention and effort. “It’s nonstop, but I wouldn’t rather it be anyone else,” she added, suggesting that this duty feels like a calling for her.
ALS affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to a gradual loss of voluntary muscle movement. For Chris, this has meant an increasing reliance on medical support. He is currently dependent on a CPAP machine for breathing and requires assistance with feeding and personal care from Brittany, family members, and friends.
During a recent photo shoot at their home near Orlando, Florida, Chris demonstrated the challenges he faces daily. Using a speech device, he communicated with his twin sons, CJ and Kaden, who are 14, to assist him with some stretching exercises. These movements are vital in alleviating the intense muscle tension that ALS inflicts on him. Chris shared, “ALS has taken away a lot of my independence. As a father, your instinct is to protect your kids. You don’t want them to be scared or feel like their whole world is changing.”
The impact of Chris’s condition has extended beyond just him; it has profoundly affected the entire family. Brittany highlighted the emotional toll on their children, saying, “My heart is constantly pulled for the kids, because their life has changed in a way that no child should have to experience.” She reminisced about how Chris was once an active figure in their children’s lives, engaging in sports and outdoor activities—something the family greatly misses now.
Brittany further expressed how isolating the experience can feel at times. “Sometimes we feel like we’re prisoners in our home because it just takes so much to get out,” she lamented. Despite this, she remains committed to making the most of every moment: “We try to enjoy the little moments. But again, it is nonstop trying to make sure all of [Chris’] needs are met and that he’s comfortable.”
Despite the challenges they face, Brittany commended Chris for his openness about his condition, believing it is crucial for raising awareness regarding ALS. “This is one of the most devastating diseases. It takes so much from a person in a way that nobody should go through,” she stated firmly. Both Chris and Brittany feel compelled to share their journey to highlight the urgent need for further research into ALS treatments, as they navigate through current clinical trials that have yet to deliver the expected results.
The couple’s candidness about their experiences resonates with many and serves as a reminder of the reality faced by those living with ALS. Brittany emphasised the need for more attention on this debilitating condition, so that other families do not have to endure similar hardships. “There’s literally no treatments out there. We just need all hands on deck,” she urged, calling for increased awareness and support for ALS research.
As Chris Johnson continues his battle with ALS, his and Brittany’s commitment to sharing their story reflects both their strength and determination. Through their journey, they aim not only to seek better solutions for their own family but also to inspire change that could benefit countless others impacted by this life-altering illness.