Former Toronto Maple Leafs star Börje Salming has announced that he has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Posted at 8:26
The 71-year-old Swede announced the news Wednesday through the Maple Leafs.
Salming played 16 seasons with the Maple Leafs, from 1973 to 1989.
“I heard news that shook my family and me, wrote Salming. The signs indicated that something was wrong with my body and it was finally that I had ALS.
“In an instant, everything changed. I don’t know how the days ahead will unfold, but I know that I will face the greatest challenge of my life. I am aware that there is no cure, but that there is research all over the world so that there will be one, one day. In the meantime, there are treatments available to slow the progression of the disease and my family and I will stay positive. »
Salming had 150 goals and 637 assists in 1,148 NHL games, all with the Maple Leafs. The defenseman was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1996.
“Since I started playing hockey as a child in Kiruna, and throughout my career, I have always given my all. I will continue to do so,” Salming said.
Salming asked to respect his privacy during this difficult time, but thanked those who will keep him in their prayers.
ALS is a degenerative disease that affects not only muscles, but also cognitive functions.