Leafs release some awful news on the health of Borje Salming

Legendary defenseman Borje Salming released a statement through the Toronto Maple Leafs today, announcing that he has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The prognosis, as it is with all cases of ALS, is terminal.

Here's Salming's statement:

"I have received news that has shaken my family and me.
 
The signs that indicated that something was wrong in my body turned out to be the disease ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig´s disease. In an instant, everything changed. I do not know how the days ahead will be, but I understand that there will be challenges greater than anything I have ever faced. I also recognize that there is no cure but there are numerous worldwide trials going on and there will be a cure one day. In the meantime, there are treatments available to slow the progression and my family and I will remain positive.
 
Since I started playing ice hockey as a little kid in Kiruna, and throughout my career, I have given it my all. And I will continue to do so. 
 
Right now, I rest assured that I have my loving family around me and the best possible medical care. 
 
I understand that there are many of you that would like to reach out, however I kindly ask you to respect our privacy in these trying times. Please keep us in your prayers. When the time is right and I understand more about my condition and future journey, I will reach out. So, until such a time, we kindly refrain from all contact. 
 
I hope you understand and respect our decision."

- Borje Salming

The Hall of Fame defenseman has been in declining health for years now, so hopefully now that he has an official diagnosis he can begin treatment to ease some of his suffering. As Salming himself points out though, there is currently no cure for ALS. That means that eventually, no matter how hard Salming fights that the disease will eventually take him from us. 

For those of you too young to have seen Salming play, he was a smooth skating defenseman who paved the way for other Europeans to make their way in the NHL. He took endless amounts of abuse from opponents due to his nationality but never once backed down from anyone. He was a determined player who always rose to the occasion, despite facing a league that wanted to see him fail. 

He was the total package as a defenseman. Equally adept at rushing the puck up ice, blocking shots and clearing the front of the net. He was one of the best two-way players of his era and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1996.

Thoughts and prayers go out to Borje and the entire Salming family during this extremely difficult time.