Kukla's Korner Hockey

Kukla's Korner Hockey

Wayne Fleming's Fighting Spirit

02/11/2013 at 2:45pm EST

from Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun,

Eleven years after taking part in Canada's Olympic gold medal-winning celebration in Salt Lake City, Wayne Fleming lies in his southwest Calgary home clinging to life.

But he's far from battling alone.

Considered the glue that brought Canada's four-man coaching staff together for Canada's first hockey gold in 50 years, Fleming is buoyed by support from a hockey community that continues to surround the long-time coach almost two years after brain surgery.

The power of that support was evident earlier this month when more than a dozen members of his immediate and hockey family gathered at his house for an emotional ceremony inducting him into the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame. The private commemoration was held eight months before the annual induction is scheduled to be held in Winnipeg.

Under palliative care and confined to his bed since June, the 62-year-old Snowflake, Man., native was largely unresponsive during the gathering until heartfelt words from a Hall official prompted Fleming's eyes to open.

continued

Create an Account

In order to leave a comment, please create an account.

About Kukla's Korner Hockey

Paul Kukla founded Kukla’s Korner in 2005 and the site has since become the must-read site on the ‘net for all the latest happenings around the NHL.

From breaking news to in-depth stories around the league, KK Hockey is updated with fresh stories all day long and will bring you the latest news as quickly as possible.

Email Paul anytime at [email protected]

Most Recent Posts

Most Recent Comments

Comment by Paul in Kukla's Korner Hockey from the entry NHL Short Notes - 2 hours ago
Comment by Paul in Kukla's Korner Hockey from the entry NHL Short Notes - 2 hours ago
Comment by Steeb in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Quick Recap- Wings/Hurricanes - 3 hours ago
Comment by calquake in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Quick Recap- Wings/Hurricanes - 3 hours ago
Comment by StargateSG1 in Abel to Yzerman from the entry Quick Recap- Wings/Hurricanes - 3 hours ago