Paralyzed Olympian Releases Heartbreaking Statement

Very sad news on Finnish national team player Sanni Hakala who, while playing for HV71 in Sweden collided head-first with the net. The 26-year, who has represented in two Olympics and four Worlds, is paralyzed from the chest down, with reduced function in the arms and hands.

"It's still hard to understand what has happened, that the crash into the goal post was as serious as it was, that the consequences have become so big. Not only that I am forced to stop playing hockey, something that has been a big part of my life for many years, but that I may be forced to sit in a wheelchair for the rest of my life."
"The injury I sustained last Friday after colliding with the goal post has left me paralyzed from the chest down, with reduced function in my arms and hands."
"That's the reality I'm trying to land in. I understand that I am now facing a long and hard fight with my body and the toughest game of my life. I have had amazing support from my family from day one and I know that they will be by my side throughout the whole journey. Without them by my side this would not have been possible."
"And for all the support I've received from friends, fans, and clubs from all around the world, I want to say THANK YOU! Your concerns and your support mean the world to me and my family in this tough situation. And an equally big thank you to all the medical staff who have taken care."
"Now I need to focus all my energy on the rehabilitation so that I can recover as well as possible. Therefore, me and HV71 will not leave any further comments regarding my injury situation and I ask you all to show consideration and respect to me and my
"This situation obviously sucks but I'm not scared to take it on. I don't know what I'm going to do next but I know it will be f**ing awesome."