Former Baltimore Ravens player O.J. Brigance and his wife, Chanda, will address audience members Tuesday during the next installment of Associated Black Charities’ “Equity First” speakers series.
The event, Associated Black Charities CEO and President Chrissy M. Thornton, will take place Tuesday at 7 p.m. Attendees can register for free online.
Brigance was signed to the Miami Dolphins in 1996 after five years playing in the Canadian Football League. In 1999, his teammates bestowed upon him the Ed Block Courage Award. He also received the NFL Player Association’s Unsung Hero Award that season.
Then, in 2000, the Baltimore Ravens signed Brigance, where he finished second on the roster with 25 special teams tackles. He also led with 10 special teams tackles in the postseason, including the first tackle of Super Bowl XXXV, the Ravens’ first championship win.
After Brigance was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2007, he and his wife Chanda established the Brigance Brigade Foundation, which works to improve the quality of life for people with ALS and their families. The nonprofit provides access to support services, equipment, and resource guidance to those diagnosed with the disease.
“Regardless of what we go through in life, there is always purpose wrapped within the pain,” Brigance said in a statement.
The foundation has improved access to caregiving services, equipment, and in-home accessibility for hundreds of families living with ALS. The organization also provides financial assistance through their grant program.
Brigance marked his 17th year living with ALS in 2024. The average life expectancy for people diagnosed with the disease is three to five years.
Associated Black Charities is located at 2 Hamill Road, 302, East Quadrangle, Baltimore, MD 21210. Click here to register for the “Equity First” event on Tuesday.
