“I’m No Longer Afraid of Death”: Steve McMichael Moved to Tears After Emotional Hospital Visit from Teammates — “The Love They Showed Me Was More Than Expected
April 15, 2025 – Chicago, IL
In a moment that transcended football and touched the hearts of fans and former players alike, Steve “Mongo” McMichael, former Chicago Bears legend and Super Bowl champion, was visibly moved to tears after an emotional hospital visit from several of his 1985 Bears teammates. The reunion, described as deeply heartfelt and inspiring, brought comfort and strength to McMichael, who has been battling ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) since his diagnosis in 2021.
McMichael, 67, has been a beloved figure in the Chicago sports community for decades. Known for his toughness on the field and larger-than-life personality off of it, he has spent the past few years waging a courageous fight against ALS, often called Lou Gehrig’s Disease. His condition has left him bedridden and non-verbal, but his spirit remains unbroken.
On Sunday, several of his former teammates—including Mike Singletary, Dan Hampton, Richard Dent, and Jim McMahon—gathered at the Chicago hospital where McMichael is currently receiving care. What began as a simple visit quickly turned into an emotional outpouring of love, brotherhood, and shared memories that spanned nearly four decades.
“The love they showed me was more than,” McMichael communicated with the help of his wife, Misty, and his speech-assistive technology. “It filled my soul. I’m no longer afraid of death.”
The sentiment stunned those present, many of whom wiped away tears as they witnessed the power of friendship and loyalty that still runs deep among the legendary 1985 Chicago Bears—a team often hailed as one of the greatest in NFL history.
Jim McMahon, the charismatic quarterback of that iconic team, held McMichael’s hand and recalled their gridiron battles and locker room jokes. “Steve has always been one of the toughest guys I’ve ever known,” McMahon said. “But seeing his strength now, in this moment, it’s a different kind of toughness. It’s heart. It’s soul.”
Dan Hampton, fellow defensive lineman and longtime friend, added, “We came to lift him up, but he’s the one who inspired us. That’s Mongo. Always the rock, even now.”
McMichael’s wife, Misty, who has been his tireless caregiver and advocate, said the visit brought a noticeable light back into his eyes. “He hasn’t smiled like that in weeks. It meant the world to him. They were more than teammates. They’re brothers.”
The hospital staff, many of whom were visibly moved by the reunion, allowed the visit to extend well beyond the originally planned hour. Photos and brief videos shared by those present show laughter, quiet reflection, and heartfelt embraces.
The visit comes at a time when McMichael’s fight against ALS has captured national attention. He was recently selected as a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025, a recognition many believe is long overdue. His supporters have rallied behind the “Mongo Strong” movement, raising awareness and funds for ALS research and pushing for his Hall of Fame induction while he is still alive to witness it.
“We’re not just here to honor a football player,” Mike Singletary said. “We’re here to honor a man who’s showing us what courage looks like.”
As the sun set over Chicago that evening, a city and a fanbase once again remembered why they fell in love with Steve McMichael. It wasn’t just the tackles or the championships—it was the heart. And in that hospital room, surrounded by those who knew him best, McMichael reminded the world that the strength of the human spirit can shine even in the darkest of times.
He may be facing the final chapters of his life, but Steve McMichael is facing them without fear—and wrapped in love.
