DETROIT — Gordie Howe is heading back to Mexico for a second round of stem cell treatments, the Detroit Red Wings announced Thursday.
Howe is also moving to Toledo, Ohio to live with his son Murray and be closer to friends and family in Michigan. The 87-year-old currently lives in Lubbock, Texas.
The Red Wings are hoping that Howe will be able to attend a home game next season.
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“It would be really nice to get Dad to the Joe for a game if he’s well enough,” son Mark told M-Live. “We just take everything day to day. We’d like to get him in the building, let him watch a little hockey. We’re trying to get him as much mental stimulation as possible.
“We’ll try to keep improving his quality of life.”
Howe suffered a serious stroke on Oct. 26, 2014 and underwent an initial round of stem cell treatments in December that improved his well being.
“The people in San Diego (at Stemedica Cell Technologies) recommended two treatments,” Mark said. “Everything they said has come true (about Gordie’s improvement). They said he’ll benefit from a second treatment. We’re keeping our fingers crossed. We’re not expecting a miracle leap, but anything that improves his quality of life will be good.”
Both sons say Howe is doing much better, but say there is still some difficulties.
“Physically he’s much better. Mentally, with the dementia, he still struggles,” Mark said. “In Texas, he was isolated from friends in Michigan and Ohio. We’re hoping this will continue to stimulate his mind if the second treatment does well.”
Earlier Thursday, a bridge that will link Canada and the United States, was named after Howe. Murray says that it won’t be an honour his father will likely remember.
“He might be aware of it but he’s unable to retain things (his memory) on most days,” Mark said. “I’m sure Dad was watching (on the computer). And we’ll try to get a tape of this (ceremony).”
