Former Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Borje Salming diagnosed with ALS

Former NHL defenseman and Hall of Famer Borje Salming announced that he has been diagnosed with ALS.

Salming shared the following statement through the Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday morning:

“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.“

Salming spent a majority of his career with the Leafs, playing for them for 16 seasons from 1973 to 1989, and spent his final season in 1989-90 with the Detroit Red Wings. Salming finished with a career of 150 goals, 637 assists, and 787 points in 1,148 games, and holds several several Leafs franchise records, including most career points and goals by a defenseman, and most career assists. In 1996, Salming became the first Swedish player inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.