Princeton University Athletics
The Denna Laing Fund
January 27, 2016 | Women's Ice Hockey
I am thrilled to be a part of the inaugural season of the National Women's Hockey League and am absolutely delighted to be one of the pioneers in a breakthrough moment for my sport on New Years Eve -- the Outdoor Women's Classic at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro MA. Tragically, during the first period I suffered a severe spinal cord injury playing the sport I love. As of today, I have limited movement of my arms and no feeling in my legs. I had a lengthy 7 1/2 hour emergency surgery followed by 12 days in the Intensive Care Unit at Mass General Hospital. I was transferred to a Rehabilitation Center in Charlestown and continue to fight every day with the same determination and tenacity I had when I played ice hockey for Princeton. With respect to a long-term prognosis, right now there are more questions than answers. I have been working on strengthening muscles, getting other muscles to fire and using adaptive techniques to increase my basic everyday functionality. I have received an incredible outpouring of love and support from my PWIH family, and Princeton Alumni while I continue to move forward through this overwhelming journey.
As always GO TIGERS
- Denna
If you want to follow my progress please click
A note from Princeton Women's Hockey Coach Jeff Kampersal:
We all continue to be inspired by Denna's strength and attitude. She is a remarkable young woman. Denna was a two-year captain at Princeton because she was all heart, played with grit and took charge. Denna has a high compete level, never took a day off, and was the model of consistency. Now Denna will rely on her toughness, her indomitable will, our love from the Princeton Athletic Family, and the support of the entire hockey community to meet her new challenge. Please keep Denna in your thoughts.
We love you Denna.
#14strong