Former NHL player Gino Odjick reveals he has terminal disease

Dear friends, teammates, and fans,

We have shared many great moments together over the years, but today I need to share news about the biggest fight of my life.

About two months ago I was diagnosed with a rare terminal disease
called AL amyloidosis. It’s causing abnormal protein to be produced and
deposits are being formed on my heart. It’s hardening my heart and my
doctors aren’t sure how long I have to live. Initially they thought
years, but now they think it could be a lot less. I could be down to
months or even weeks.

I began fighting this disease a few days after Pat Quinn’s ring of
honour night. I went to the hospital because I was short of breath and
48 hours later I received the news. I’ve been in the hospital under the
supervision of some great doctors ever since. I also have the support of
my kids, my sisters, my family and some great friends.

I’m telling you about this now because news is beginning to leak out
and I wanted you to hear it from me. I also want you to know that my
spirit is strong even if my body isn't. I'm going to use all of my time
to be with my kids and everyone I love.

I feel very fortunate for my life. During my career I played in some
great NHL cities including, Vancouver, Long Island, Philadelphia and
Montreal. In my heart, I will always be a Canuck and I have always had a
special relationship here with the fans. Your "Gino, Gino" cheers were
my favourite. I wish I could hear them again. You have been amazing.

My teammates became like brothers and am thankful I had the
opportunity this past year to re-unite with so many of them. I'll never
forget my first NHL game against Chicago and my first goal. It also
means the world to me that my hockey career gave me a chance to open
doors for kids in Aboriginal community. I was just a little old Indian
boy from the Rez.  If I could do it, so could they. My hope is that my
hockey story helps show kids from home what's possible. I always tell
them that education is freedom.

I also made some great friends through hockey and away from the ice
as well. Life-long friends who have been with me as I lived out my dream
on the ice. It made the journey that much more special and cherished.

This isn't goodbye, but I wanted you to know what is happening. I'm
going to stay strong and I hope to spend as much time with my kids as
possible.

I understand the media will likely want to learn more, but I hope you
can respect my request for privacy as I focus my time on my children
and family.

- Gino