Pronger's Heart Stopped: Hockey Legend's Near-Death Experience

Chris Pronger, a towering figure in NHL history, has shared a gripping account of a near-fatal event that occurred during a 1998 playoff game. While playing for the St. Louis Blues, Pronger experienced commotio cordis after being struck in the chest by a puck, causing his heart to stop. This rare condition, similar to what affected Damar Hamlin in 2023, resulted in Pronger collapsing on the ice.

He recalled regaining consciousness amidst concerned faces, realizing his jersey had been cut open. Medical responders were preparing for resuscitation when Pronger miraculously revived. Doctors later explained the incident as a "short circuit" in his heart, noting its higher occurrence in younger athletes.

Despite this terrifying experience, Pronger underwent extensive testing, which revealed no underlying heart issues. He returned to play just two days later, demonstrating remarkable resilience. His career, marked by a Stanley Cup and numerous accolades, continued until an eye injury and subsequent concussions ultimately led to his retirement in 2012.

Pronger's memoir, "Earned," also details his challenging recovery from post-concussion syndrome, emphasizing the importance of pushing through symptoms. He now advocates for safety in sports and reflects on the advancements in medical response since his 1998 incident, finding pride in contributing to a safer athletic environment.