Red Wings fans come through in spades for Vladdy

He was one of the most punishing and devastatingly effective defenseman in the National Hockey League, and was truly coming into his own at the time of the historic 1997 Stanley Cup victory. He was also an astounding plus-60 during Detroit's record-setting 1995-96 season, and his massive body checks put fear into the hearts of opponents.

But his career ended and his life was changed forever less than a week after the ultimate triumph when he was critically injured along with team trainer Sergei Mnatsakanov in a limousine accident. Konstantinov suffered serious head injuries and paralysis. And there has been fear that Konstantinov could lose the vital medical care that he needs in order to do basic every day tasks like brushing his teeth or using the bathroom thanks to changes in the Michigan automobile insurance laws. 

Thanks to the generosity of Red Wings fans, the Vladimir Konstantinov Special Needs Trust has already raised over $65,000. Take a look at a more in depth report via Detroit Hockey Now: 

"Those who donate $50 to the Konstantinov Special Needs Trust will receive a signed Konstantinov photo. They’ll also be receiving a randomly-selected signed Konstantinov hockey card. Make a $75 donation and receive an autographed 1997 Stanley Cup puck signed by either Konstantinov or Hall of Fame coach Scotty Bowman. There’s also a randomly-selected autographed Konstantinov 8×10 photo included."

There is still time for you to donate to a worthy cause that will also land you a valuable piece of Red Wings memorabilia in return. For those looking to do so, contact Alan Moore ([email protected]) of SportsGraphing.