If Helmets Aren't Enough To Protect Players, What's the Solution?
Dear National Hockey League Commissioner:
Why deny overwhelming scientific evidence that brain injuries in hockey players are caused by the sport? Why be so bold except to protect your future business?
More important: what is your solution?
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Today, an important article in the New York Times concerns the tragic death of a 28-year-old hockey star. Scientific proof has made into fact some suspicions deeply-held by many, that sports stars are dying in record numbers from degenerative brain diseases. Doctors who analyzed and studied his brain tissues and brains of similar sports stars believe there is no longer any doubt whatsoever that many sports cause and worsen health issues that can lead to needless premature death. Such brain diseases are diagnosed posthumously.
The business of sports in general continues to expand. At the same time lingering health issues of living players are ignored and categorically denied by bosses because players get injured and treat themselves in different ways. The sports business depends on denying such problems, but morally, it's wrong. It's obvious to see the problems that degenerative health issues would imply for the world of sports.
I say SHAME on all those who profit from blood sports -- "blood" being contact sports that injure the brains and bodies of players for life outside the game. Pure greed is easy to recognize.
My best wishes and condolences go to those families who have made the ultimate sacrifice for any sport.
Luckily, this is not my personal problem. In my family unit, we prefer not to watch blood sports.