Former Alabama football star Kerry Goode has written a message to fans as he continues to battle the effects of a neurological disease.

Kerry Goode, a mainstay of the Crimson Tide in the early 80s, posted a message to Facebook Thursday as he prepares “to move on to the next chapter.”

“Friends, I am not dropping the mic and walking away, nor I am not giving up, but I am tired,” Goode said. “So, I decided to take a moment to write down my thoughts and express my deepest feelings.”

Goode, who played for Alabama from 1983 through 1987, was diagnosed in 2015 with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) — also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

ALS is a neurodegenerative disease that, according to the ALS Association website, affects the nerve cells that control a person’s muscles. As the disease progresses, the brain loses the ability to start and control voluntary movement, according to the website.

Goode has already beat the odds in many respects, as the life expectancy for ALS is two to five years. There is no known cure for the disorder.

In his message, Goode writes:

First and foremost, thank you for being a part of my life. Each one of you has brought joy, love, and meaning to my days, and I am profoundly grateful for the moments we shared. Whether we laughed together, cried together, or simply sat quietly, every moment we spent together has been a treasure.

To my family, you have been my rock, my support, and my source of unconditional love. I am so proud of each of you and the wonderful people you have become. Please know that I carry your love with me, and I leave behind my love for you. Cherish each other, support one another, and keep our family bond strong because it is who I am.

To my friends, you have been my sidekick, teammates and accomplices in this thing called life. Your friendship has been a gift that I will cherish forever. Thank you for the adventures, the laughter, and the understanding. Hold onto the memories we created and let them bring a smile to your face when you think of me and comfort you in times of sorrow.

Life has been filled with ups and downs, joys and challenges, but through it all, I have been blessed beyond measure. I encourage you to live each day with gratitude, kindness, and love. And remember to take time for the simple pleasures, to laugh often, and to share your love generously Because none of this cost you a dime but are worth more than gold.

As I move closer to saying goodbye, I want you to know that I am at peace. I have faith in the journey ahead and trust that I will be reunited with you in spirit. Please do not grieve me because I left it all on the field. Instead, celebrate the life we shared and the love that will always connect us.

This has been a beautiful journey. All I ask of is that you follow me to the grand finally to see me walk again. And hear “Well done” as our greeting.

With every ounce of my love,

Kerry “KG” Goode #35

Goode and his three brothers — Chris, Pierre and Clyde — all played for Alabama. So did their cousin, former star cornerback Antonio Langham.

Goode finished his career with 1,350 yards and six touchdowns, 30 catches for 222 yards and a score and a kickoff return for a touchdown.

He was selected by Tampa Bay in the seventh round of the 1988 NFL draft. His youngest brother, Clyde, passed away in 2012 following a battle with leukemia.

Goode’s friend and former Tide teammate Kevin Turner was diagnosed with ALS in 2010. He died in 2016.