DETROIT, Mich. - The family of Gordie Howe says the hockey great is experiencing a "truly miraculous" and "amazing" improvement in his condition after undergoing a clinical trial of stem cell therapy.
Mark Howe, his son, said in a statement that his father's ability to move around and name things have increased from, in his estimation, 25 percent to, in most cases, 85 percent.
"His progress has exceeded our greatest expectations," he said.
The 86-year-old suffered a series of small strokes in the summer and a serious stroke in October, after which he appeared to be in failing health.
Mark Howe noted last month that his father's condition was "definitely heading in the wrong direction" after a sudden and rapid decline.
The Howe family was contacted by management of Stemedica Cell Technologies in reference to possible participation in a two-day, non-surgical trial treatment in which they specialize.
They agreed to the treatment, the results of which the family relayed in a statement released through the Red Wings.
"The treatment included neural stem cells injected into the spinal canal on Day 1 and mesenchumal stem cells by intravenous infusion on Day 2. His response was truly miraculous. At the end of Day 1 he was walking with minimal effort for the first time since his stroke. By Day 2 he was conversing comfortably with family and staff at the clinic.
"Although his short-term memory, strength, endurance and coordination have plenty of room for improvement, we are hopeful that he will continue to improve in the months to come."
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