Teppo Readies Return To NHL After Heart Valve Repair
Talk about inspirational!
Over the past six months, I have been following the surgery and recovery of Teppo Numminen (NHL Hockey Star) after his heart valve repair at the Cleveland Clinic. Well, there is great news to report!
Yesterday, the Buffalo Sabres lifted the injury suspension of Teppo, the defenseman who underwent open-heart surgery in September, 2007.
According to the Associated Press, Numminen’s activation means that the 39-year-old could play in the Sabres’ final two games of the regular season-both road contests at Montreal and at Boston. The 18-year veteran’s return could be short-lived, however, as the Sabres are in danger of missing the playoffs by virtue of a five-point deficit against eighth-running Philadelphia in the Eastern Conference.
Numminen was first diagnosed with the heart problem prior to the start of training camp last season. His placement on the suspended list prevented him from receiving part of his $2.6 million contract. The National Hockey League and the players union are deliberating a grievance Numminen filed in November.
In his last full season in the NHL, 2006-2007, the Finland native finished with two goals and 29 points in 79 games. He has a career 115 goals and 505 assists in more than 1,300 games.Way to go Teppo!
Keep on tickin,
Adam Pick is an aortic valve replacement and pulmonary valve replacement patient. Adam is also the author of The Patient’s Guide To Heart Valve Surgery. This special book was designed to help patients and caregivers better understand the realities of heart valve surgery (heart valve replacement and heart valve repair), to minimize patient stress and to enhance the patient’s recovery. To learn more about Adam’s heart valve surgery book, click here
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