This is probably the most important victory of his career: Patrick Obrist, captain of the Swiss ice hockey club EHC Olten and Austrian national player, has successfully ended his battle against lymphatic cancer. The 32-year-old striker is considered cancer-free after successful chemotherapy and has begun the build-up phase for his return to the ice.
The diagnosis last summer was a severe shock for all Austrian ice hockey fans. A recent medical examination has now confirmed that Obrist has overcome the illness and the rehabilitation phase can begin.
“Most important win of the year”
“I am extremely relieved and grateful,” Patrick Obrist was quoted as saying in a statement from the club. He emphasized that the positive attitude and support of those around him were crucial: “I read all the news and saw the fans’ banners, and I received a lot of encouragement from the team and the club. The EHCO is really like a family and has given me a lot of strength.”
Christian Roth, CEO of EHC Olten, was also euphoric about the recovery of his leading player: “This is the most important victory of the year for EHC Olten. We are very happy for Obi, he showed his full strength in this fight.”
Return at the earliest around the turn of the year
Thanks to his excellent physical condition, Obrist’s chances of recovery were rated as good by the doctors right from the start. The striker has already started ice training, but the time needed to rebuild his condition is respected.
An exact time for Obrist’s comeback to competitive ice has not yet been determined. As the club reports, a return to play could only take place around the turn of the year at the earliest. CEO Roth urged caution: “Of course we look forward to seeing him on the ice again, but he shouldn’t rush into anything.”
Pic: Ailura, CC BY-SA 3.0 AT, CC BY-SA 3.0
