Beloved Chicago Blackhawks Player May Be Retiring

I hate to be the bearer of bad news here, but several sources are saying that Chicago Blackhawks' Marian Hossa may have played his last NHL game. Nooooo!!!

According to SportsNet Canada, Marion Hossa who has scored 186 goals and earned 3 Stanley Cup titles with the Chicago Blackhawks since 2009, may be suffering from a severe allergy to his hockey equipment. I get this is a big problem, but I can't help but wonder, isn't there a medicine for that? Yes, there is, but apparently the medication is so potent doctors worry about Hossa taking it long term, and it would require weekly blood tests to watch for serious side effects.

Specific details about Hossa's condition have not been released, but Hossa did say this in a statement according to WGN TV;

I have been privately undergoing treatment for a progressive skin disorder and the side effects of the medications
involved to treat the disorder. Due to the severe side effects associated with those medications, playing hockey is not possible for me during the upcoming 2017-18 season. While I am disappointed that I will not be able to play, I have to consider the severity of my condition and how the treatments have impacted my life both on and off the ice.

Here is the response to Hossa's statement from the Chicago Blackhawks organization;

The Chicago Blackhawks are in full support of Marian Hossa as he addresses his medical issues. This is extremely difficult for us because we all know the incredible person and player that Marian Hossa is - competitive, loyal and humble. He has played a major role in the success our franchise has experienced in recent years, which makes his departure from our lineup a significant loss. His teammates and coaches know he battled through some very tough physical difficulties but never complained or missed games despite the challenges he faced. The organization will continue to provide him every resource he needs to maintain his health.

I really hate to say this, but I think an official retirement statement will be coming soon from Marian Hossa. Do you agree?

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