Falcons owner Arthur Blank donates $100,000 to Gleason Initiative

Falcons owner Arthur Blank has always been a charitable man. Today, he and his family came through yet again in a significant way, with a $100,000 donation to the Gleason Initiative.

For those who are unaware, Steve Gleason is a former Saints player who has ALS, known to many as Lou Gehrigs disease. Gleason has bravely fought back against the debilitating disease and his battle was recently documented in the movie “Gleason.”

On Friday August 12th, Arthur and Angie Blank hosted a screening of the film. Mr. Blank and his wife were so moved by Gleason’s story that they felt compelled to do something to help in the fight against ALS.

“Steve Gleason’s story touched me as a father and recent cancer survivor. Stories like his bring into focus what is truly important. His story is about a life that was dramatically changed by a disease, and how he has courageously chosen to face it” said Blank. “It’s about family and what is most important in life – more important than any game, any play or any rivalry ever will be.”

Our own Jeanna Thomas recently saw the film and wrote a fantastic review that you can read here.

If you’re interested to find out more about the movie, or how you can get involved in helping to raise awareness about ALS, visit www.gleasonmovie.com.