At age 35, Pittsburgh Penguins D Kris Letang has publicly suffered two strokes but confirms that there is more to the story.
Letang returned to action just two weeks after suffering his second stroke. Admirable, yes - but concerning all the same.
In a recent interview with
Jean-François Chaumont of Le Journal de Montreal, Letang opened revealed the truth behind his condition.
He admitted that his affliction is never fully behind him and that there have been other episodes unreported. After his most recent episode, Letang learned he has a hole in his heart but upon completion of a series of tests, was cleared for action.
Naturally, matters of health are private, and in the case of professional athletes, such issues only become public knowledge when their ability to play is affected.
Translated from French, Letang said: "It's never really behind me," noted Letang. It happened several times, it seems. But we really have a plan right now that we will execute. With this plan, I will have less stress and afterthoughts with all this. But everything is stable and perfect. There is no problem with my health."
Letang's attitude is inspiring, and his confidence in his ability to blaze a trail forward is promising. However, one cannot help but feel a little uneasy knowing he has dealt with 'several' alternate episodes.
Ideally, the 3x Stanley Cup champion finishes his career with no surprises, as he is a treat to watch and one of the most likable players in the NHL.
