Things may be looking up for Mr. Hockey.
Red Wings great Gordie Howe has always been tough, but a serious stroke suffered a week ago Sunday appeared to be a big blow.
His son, Dr. Murray Howe, said the stroke took away his father's ability to walk and use his right side. It also affected his speech.
But Howe appears to be rallying this week.
In an email to hockeybuzz.com, Mark Howe, the Wings' director of pro scouting, said he planned to attend the Florida Panthers-Philadelphia Flyers game Thursday.
"Dad improving every day," Mark Howe wrote. "He is even walking a bit with a walker and some assistance. Right arm getting somewhat functional again also. Hard to believe from what I saw Tuesday when I got to Lubbock. Just hoping the trend continues."
Mark, Marty and Murray Howe all traveled to Lubbock, Tex., where their sister Cathy lives, to be with their father after the stroke.
Late Tuesday night, the Wings released a new statement from the Howe family:
"The Howe family is pleased to report that over the past week Mr. Hockey has been recovering at a remarkable rate, including his speech, and his ability to walk with the assistance of a walker. Much work lies ahead, and we would like to thank friends and fans worldwide for their prayers and incredible outpouring of support.
"Our father has been truly moved by the countless phone calls, letters, emails, posts, and the Red Wings "Get Well" gesture during the October 31 game. Mr. Hockey and the entire Howe family cannot thank you all enough."
Wings fans were encouraged when the Howe family released video of Howe watching Wings fans cheer for Gordie during last Friday's home game against the Kings.
Fans waved "Get Well Gordie" signs and chanted, "Gordie! Gordie! Gordie!"
Now those fans are hoping that Mr. Hockey makes a full recovery.
