Boston Pride forward Denna Laing left last Thursday’s Outdoor Women’s Classic at Gillette Stadium on a stretcher. One week later, the National Women’s Hockey League released a grave report on the 24-year-old’s condition.
Laing, a native of Marblehead, Mass., has been diagnosed with a “significant spinal fracture,” according to the league.
“Denna was thrilled to be taking part in the inaugural season of the National Women’s Hockey League and was absolutely delighted to be one of the pioneers in a breakthrough moment for her sport — the Outdoor Women’s Classic,” Laing’s parents, Jerilyn and Dennis, said in a statement. “Tragically, Denna suffered a severe spinal cord injury playing the sport she loves. As of today, Denna has limited movement of her arms and no feeling in her legs.
“Our prayer going forward is that Denna can be moved from the Intensive Care Unit to a Rehabilitation Center and continue to fight every day with her trademark grit and resolve. With respect to her long-term prognosis, right now there are more questions than answers. We have received an incredible outpouring of love and support from countless friends and family members while we try to navigate this overwhelming situation. We are eternally grateful to everyone who continues to offer support as we take on this challenge together.”
The NWHL’s release also included statements of support from Boston Bruins president Cam Neely, Montreal Canadiens president Geoff Molson, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, NWHL commissioner Dani Rylan and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft.
“On behalf of the Jacobs family I would like to extend the full support of the Boston Bruins to Denna and the Laing family,” Neely said. “The New England hockey community is an incredibly strong group, and we know the assistance that will be provided to Denna and her family will be unwavering both in the immediate future and throughout the various stages of treatment.”
Those wishing to donate to Laing’s cause can do so by clicking the link below.
Thumbnail photo via Twitter/@HurleySportsWL
