Former Calgary Flames captain Lanny McDonald experienced quite a scare upon his return from the National Hockey League (NHL) All-Star Game held in Toronto last weekend.
After arriving at Calgary airport on Sunday, the 70-year-old suffered a heart attack, according to a message on his Instagram account. However, he could count on the help of passers-by who stood by him.
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“Two selfless nurses embarking on their own flight did not hesitate to intervene,” McDonald wrote. With everything that's happening, Ardell [sa femme] I couldn't ask them their names, but we will forever be grateful to you… I owe you my life.
The 1988-1989 Stanley Cup champion also took the opportunity to thank Calgary first responders and airline WestJet.
“I wish I could thank you all personally because I know there were multiple people involved,” the Albertan continued. They provided me with the highest level of support, kindness and professionalism and I am honored to have benefited from their promptness and expertise. I am now in the hospital where the care continues and every nurse and doctor is better than the next.”
The man with the famous red mustache has been a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame since 1992 and collected 500 goals and 1,006 points in 1,111 NHL games.
“Many thanks to everyone for the good wishes [les nouvelles vont vite!], he added. As I wait for advice from medical experts on the old man's next steps [en anglais, “ol’ ticker”]I'll try to convince the team to bet on the Chiefs [de Kansas City] for the Super Bowl next Sunday and that we will never stop cheering on our Flames.”
The former Flames' official X-page also wanted to thank the people who helped the former striker.
“Our thanks and love go out to all the medical professionals who helped Lanny and continue to care for our friend!”