A former Windsor Spitfire has been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.
Brian Bickell, 30, currently plays for the Carolina Hurricanes of the NHL.
In a release from the team, Bickell says "since the 2015 playoffs, I've been struggling to understand what was going on with my body." He adds "Again during the past few weeks, it felt like something wasn't right. Obviously this is a bit of shock for my family and me, but I am hopeful I will be able to return to the ice and continue playing the game that I love.''
The Bowmanville native, was acquired by Carolina on June 15 from Chicago, where he was a member of the Blackhawks' Stanley Cup-winning teams in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
Bickell played for the Windsor Spitfires during the 2006-06 season and was previously with the Ottawa 67s.