Gordie Howe recovering well following last year's stroke

As Canadians gear up for the NHL pre-season, Saskatoon’s own Mr. Hockey is recovering nicely after suffering a stroke last year.

Gordie Howe, 87, received stem cell treatment after a stroke left him bedridden and unable to speak.

His son Murray said his dad is nearly back to his old self.

“Every day is a bit of a challenge, everything is sore, but other than that, he’s still Mr. Hockey and he’s definitely enjoying himself and we’re definitely thrilled to still have him around,” Murray said, adding Howe was even able to attend his granddaughter’s wedding. “That was just absolutely like gold to have him there,”

Howe is living with his son in Ohio and enjoys keeping active with errands, short hikes in the park, grocery shopping and visitors.

The last time he visited Saskatoon was in February for the Kinsmen Sports Celebrity Dinner. Murray said his father is a man of few words, but he still remembers the trip through photographs.

“We kind of go through those every couple of days and we say ‘remember that part?’ And it gives him a big laugh and a smile,” Murray said.

Howe is taking part in a clinical trial in Mexico that is using stem cells for treatment following a stroke. He is due for another treatment some time around October.