Chris Pronger has always been a pillar of strength in the NHL, first with the Whalers, Blues, Oilers, and Ducks before joining the Flyers. Unfortunately, post-concussion syndrome has rendered him helpless and will possibly force him into retirement.
The 37-year-old has been dealing with recurring symptoms that according to Lauren Pronger, his wife, aren't getting much better.
"Unfortunately, I can’t report any major improvement," she said. "I certainly wish I could. It’s very disheartening."
Keith Primeau suffered the same injury in his NHL career and hasn't been without symptoms for six years now. The Pronger family is thinking about reaching out to him, wondering what life might be like if Chris doesn't return to normal.
"That has been brought up a lot lately," she said. "There are a lot of parallels between the two [men]. I think Chris is starting to realize now that he should be in communication with him.
"To know what is ahead for him. The more insight you can get, the better off you are. You kinda know what to expect and what you are going through."
Pronger hasn't played since Nov. 19th against Winnipeg. He's definitely out for the rest of the 2011-12 season and potentially has played his final game.
Lauren also worries more about of his quality of life going forward than anything else.
“I just want him to get better,” she said. “He still has a long life to live, three kids and a wife and everything. Right now, we’re just hoping for his health to come back. That is our priority.”