Columbus Visit

Ryan Salmon had only two concerns about his visit with the NHL Officials before the match between the Phoenix Coyotes and the Columbus Blue Jackets. One, could he keep the Officials jersey he donned for the picture with his father, Barry, and the crew working that evenings game? And two, could the game have no whistles so he could make his 10:00pm appointment for chemotherapy?

Eric Furlatt and Dan O'Halloran assured Ryan that would be no problem.........in the old NHL! "Perhaps Dan Schachte and Mark Pare could loosen the icing standard!" suggested Danny O. We all had a laugh and Ryan, being a high school hockey player, seemed to appreciate the locker-room barbs that flew back and forth.

The Officials jersey that Ryan did receive is unique in two ways. First, on the back it has the #1 on it, which no on-ice Official wears in the NHL. Secondly, besides the four Officials' autographs on the front, Wayne Gretzky's autograph can be found.

Coach Gretzky of the Phoenix Coyotes was kind enough to visit with Ryan just before game time, and remarked to Dan O'Halloran later, "I think it's the only Referees jersey I've ever signed!"

Ryan had great ice-level seats for the game and when we had a chance to look over to him, the smile on his face showed how much he was enjoying his experience at the game.

We at Zebra's Care would like to thank Doug and Lori for donating their time and tickets on the glass for Ryans game experience. Wayne Gretzky for taking the time to meet Ryan. Kate Furmann for her work coordinating this visit. And CCM/Rebook for donating the Officials jersey.

If you want to read how Ryan is doing, his family has created a website that chronicles his daily events.

www.teamsalmons.com

NHL Officials

Dan O'Halloran, Eric Furlatt, Dan Schachte, Mark Pare