The all-time leader in National Hockey League assists just made another — but this time, it was a monetary assist to push Edmonton to the forefront of neuroscience.
Charitable effort has already raised $45M to advance neuroscience technology
CBC News
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The all-time leader in National Hockey League assistsjust made another— but this time, Wayne Gretzkymadea monetary assist to push Edmonton to the forefront of neuroscience.
The Wayne GretzkyFoundation donated $99,000 to the University Hospital Foundation's Brain Centre Campaign on Tuesday, and the former Edmonton Oilers greatwas named an honorary chair of the centre.
The campaignhas raised more than $45 million in the last2½ years and is set to keep the brain centre at the University of Alberta at the cutting edge of neuroscience research.
"It was easy for me to be a part of this project," Gretzky said, with his father Walterby his side. "I'm really proud and feel really honoured to be here."
Gretzky's familyhas been affected by brain conditions. Walterhad a brain aneurysm in 1991 and was left in a coma for eight days. He was also diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2012.
"Today, he's obviously doing extremely well," Wayne said. "Still thinks he could play hockey."
'Champions of neuroscience'
Joyce Mallman Law,president of the University Hospital Foundation, said the donation from Gretzkyis another step to making Edmonton a world leader in neuroscience.
"When something goes wrong with our brain, because it's the only one we have, the results can be devastating," Mallman Law said.
She said the U of A Hospital already uses groundbreaking technology, including the first stroke ambulance in Canada, revolutionary blood clot retrieval and incision-free brain surgery for tumours.
Linda Hughes, chair of theAlberta Health Services board, welcomed Gretzkyto the Brain Centre Campaign as he joined what she called "another winning Edmonton team: the champions of neuroscience."
Hughes said she remembers watching Gretzkyplay in his 20 seasons in the NHL for four teams.
"For all the goals he scored, he made many more assists— and today is no different," Hughes said. She said his contribution may also inspire other Edmontonians to follow in his footsteps and donate to the effort.
Wayne Gretzky's recent contribution to advancing neuroscience in Edmonton showcases his commitment to supporting crucial research and innovation in brain health. As the all-time leader in National Hockey League assists, his philanthropic efforts underscore a personal connection to the cause, rooted in his family's experiences with brain-related conditions, such as his father's battle with a brain aneurysm and Parkinson's disease.
Gretzky's donation of $99,000 to the University Hospital Foundation's Brain Centre Campaign is part of a larger fundraising effort that has already amassed an impressive $45 million in just 2½ years. This campaign aims to propel the University of Alberta's Brain Centre into a leading hub for cutting-edge neuroscience research.
The impact of this initiative extends beyond financial support. Gretzky's personal involvement, coupled with his familial connection to neurological health issues, demonstrates a deep-seated commitment to advancing brain-related research. His statement about feeling proud and honored to be part of the project reflects a genuine dedication to the cause.
The University of Alberta's Brain Centre boasts groundbreaking technology, including pioneering stroke ambulance services, innovative blood clot retrieval techniques, and incision-free brain surgery for tumors. This arsenal of advanced medical tools positions Edmonton as a pioneer in neuroscience research and treatment, contributing to a global effort to address the complexities of brain-related conditions.
Moreover, Linda Hughes, chair of the Alberta Health Services board, emphasized Gretzky's influential role in rallying support for the Brain Centre Campaign. Her remarks highlight Gretzky's enduring legacy not only as a legendary hockey player but also as a driving force behind the success of this critical healthcare initiative. Hughes suggests that Gretzky's contribution could inspire other Edmontonians to join the cause, further bolstering efforts to advance neuroscience research and treatment in the region.
In summary, Wayne Gretzky's philanthropic gesture, coupled with his personal ties to neurological health issues and the substantial funds raised, positions Edmonton at the forefront of neuroscience. This concerted effort to support groundbreaking research and innovative technologies demonstrates a collective commitment to understanding and treating brain-related conditions, ultimately improving the lives of many affected individuals.
