Feb. 25: Paralyzed Youth Inspires Hockey Players

In December 2011, Minnesota teen Jack Jablonski was paralyzed from the neck down after taking a hit from behind into the boards during a junior-varsity hockey game.  The injury touched the hearts of players throughout the National Hockey League.

New York Rangers rookie defenseman Stu Bickel was first to respond by donating a jersey a few days after the injury.  Fans and professional players from across the country have shown an outpouring of support.  More importantly, within a month of Jablonski’s injury, USA Hockey—the U.S. body governing ice hockey—began assessing more severe penalties for boarding and checking from behind to help reduce player injury.

Jablonski’s recovery has been greatly improved from the initial diagnosis, with movement in his right and left arms. He works hard at therapy, bolstered by frequent calls and visits from the professional players he admires.

Life may seem bleak at times, but great good can come from it if we help each other.

As you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation.  (2 Corinthians 1:7)

Lord, help me remember that You want all good for us.