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NHL legend Wayne Gretzky paid a visit to former NHLer Kelly Chase as Chase continues to battle cancer. The Great One showed his solidarity with the former St. Louis Blues and Hartford Whalers forward.
B/R Open Ice published a photo of Wayne Gretzky’s visit to Chase published on December 24. The photo showed the two former NHLers smiling as Chase looks to be in good spirits.
Here’s a look at the touching moment:
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The caption on the photograph reads:
“Xmas is GREAT no matter where you are.”
The word “GREAT” alludes to Gretzky’s nickname as 'The Great One.' Indeed, Gretzky showed off his greatness, but not so much for his hockey skills but for his human side.
Chase played a total of 428 NHL games, debuting in the 1989-90 season with St. Louis and ending his career with the Blues in 1999-00. Chase played in parts of three seasons with the Hartford Whalers (now Carolina Hurricanes) and made a brief stop with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1996-97, appearing in two games for the blue and white.
Chase scored 17 goals and 36 assists for 53 points while racking up over 2,000 PIM. His role as an enforcer and checker is one that fans remember quite vividly.
Wayne Gretzky’s track record as a humanitarian
In addition to being a hockey legend, Gretzky has been a renowned humanitarian. He’s devoted his time off the ice to numerous causes, including the Wayne Gretzky Foundation, established in 2002. The organization aims to provide underprivileged youth with an opportunity to play hockey while supporting initiatives related to building rinks and youth hockey programs.
As the foundation’s website reads:
“Every kid deserves a chance to play. The Wayne Gretzky Foundation is dedicated to helping less fortunate youth experience the sport of hockey, both on and off the ice.”
Gretzky continuously supports children’s hospitals, food banks and disaster relief efforts. He’s been known to donate his time to support worthy causes. His efforts in supporting youth hockey led to Gretzky becoming the first recipient of the Horatio Alger Award.
Gretzky also holds a role as a Board of Trustees member in the organization Right to Play. He’s also Honorary Chairman of the Ronald McDonald House Charities. The Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings legend's impact on and off the ice has been nothing short of legendary. Gretzky inspired a generation of players with his unique skills, paving the way for future stars to follow in his footsteps..
