Missoula Current

The University of Montana and MonTECH will present a critically acclaimed documentary this month that chronicles the life of a former NFL player and his ALS diagnosis at the University Center Theater.

The hit documentary “Gleason,” from the 2016 Sundance Film Festival, goes inside the life of Steve Gleason, the former New Orleans Saints defensive back who, at age of 34, was diagnosed with ALS and given a life expectancy of two to five years.

Weeks later, Gleason found out his wife, Michel, was expecting their first child.

A video journal that began as a gift for his unborn son expands to chronicle Gleason's determination to get his relationships in order. It also follows the former athlete as he builds a foundation to provide other ALS patients with purpose, and adapt to his declining physical condition using medical technologies that offer the means to live as fully as possible.

A preview of the film can be viewed online.

The event is free and open to the public, but donations are encouraged. All proceeds benefit Team Gleason, the nonprofit Gleason founded to support the ALS community.

MonTECH provides technology, support and services that improve the quality of life for Montanans with disabilities.

The documentary will play from 7 to 9:15 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 26, in the University Center Theater.

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