Bruins honor injured Boston Pride player with heartfelt pregame presentation
Denna Laing, the Boston Pride player who suffered a severe spinal cord injury during the Women’s Winter Classic on December 31, was honored at the TD Garden Thursday night before the Boston Bruins took on the Vancouver Canucks.
In a pregame tribute video, which received a standing ovation after playing on the jumbotron, Laing thanked fans, the NHL, and the Bruins for their love and support.
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“I have a lot of hard work in front of me, but I’ve never been afraid of a challenge,’’ she said.
She also shared advice from Bruins captain Zdeno Chara: “Don’t ever give up.’’
Chara went to visit Laing at Mass. General Hospital on Wednesday, bringing her a pair of Bruins high heels.
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After the video, Laing’s sisters Brianna and Lexie dropped the ceremonial first puck.
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Bruins CEO Charlie Jacobs hosted Laing’s family and friends in his suite during the game, according to the Bruins.
All in-game fundraising, including the Bruins Foundation 50/50 Raffle, benefited the Denna Laing Fund. Those in attendance during the game were also given the opportunity to make her a “get well’’ card.
Laing later took to Twitter, saying she is “really feeling the love.’’
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The Bruins have been active in trying to fundraise for Laing since her injury. In addition to pledging $200,000, the team has been organizing auctions, raffles, and selling merchandise benefitting the fund through the team’s website.
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