Following a stellar career as an NFL linebacker, O. J. Brigance joined
the Baltimore Ravens' front office. But in 2007, O.J. was diagnosed with
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis--also known as Lou Gehrig's disease--and
given only three to five years to live. As a player, he'd battled
hundreds of setbacks, but none prepared him for this.
With faith and determination in his heart and his wife, Chanda, praying
by his side, O.J. fought back against the debilitating disease, even as
ALS robbed him of the ability to walk and speak. He kept working,
smiling, and touching players' lives all the way to the Ravens' victory
at Super Bowl XLVII in 2013--more than five years after his diagnosis.
Now, O.J. shares his incredible story, offering lessons in resilience
and reflecting on the team that inspired him in turn. With insights into
the Ravens' dynamics from the best seat in the house, O.J. highlights
their perseverance, confidence, and leadership, the best that sports can
bring out in people.
Full of profound revelations and anecdotes, Strength of a Champion is
a celebration of the human spirit from a man who left everything on the
field.