Mark Kirton, Former NHL Forward and ALS Advocate, Dies at 67
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Toronto, ON – Former National Hockey League player Mark Kirton passed away Sunday at the age of 67 following a courageous battle wiht Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, commonly known as ALS.The Toronto Maple Leafs institution announced his death, recognizing his contributions both on and off the ice.
Early Hockey Career and NHL Debut
Kirton began his professional hockey journey with the Toronto maple Leafs during the 1979-80 season. He later played for the Detroit Red Wings and the Vancouver Canucks over a six-year NHL career. His dedication and skill were evident throughout his time in the league.
Statistical Overview
Throughout his NHL career, Kirton competed in 266 games, scoring an impressive 57 goals. he notably achieved an 18-goal season while playing for the Detroit Red Wings in 1980-81. His offensive contributions were a valuable asset to each team he represented.
| Team | Years | Games played | Goals | points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto Maple Leafs | 1979-1981 | 83 | 23 | 41 |
| Detroit Red Wings | 1981-1983 | 108 | 32 | 53 |
| Vancouver Canucks | 1984-1985 | 62 | 17 | 22 |
| Total | 1979-1985 | 266 | 57 | 116 |
ALS Advocacy and Legacy
In 2018, Kirton received a diagnosis of ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease. Driven by his experience,he founded ALS Action Canada with PALS,a patient-centered organization dedicated to accelerating research and finding a cure for ALS. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke estimates that approximately 5 to 10 percent of ALS cases are inherited.
did You Know?
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and eventual paralysis.
Recognition and Early Life
Kirton’s commitment to the ALS community was further recognized in 2022 when the Leafs Alumni Association presented him with the Carl brewer Memorial Award. Prior to his professional career, Kirton excelled in junior hockey with the Peterborough Petes, where he recorded 27 goals and 71 points in 68 regular-season games, adding 26 points in the playoffs. He was originally drafted 48th overall by Toronto in 1978.
Pro Tip:
Supporting organizations like ALS Action Canada is crucial for funding research and providing care for individuals and families affected by this devastating disease.
Final Season and Impact
Kirton concluded his NHL career with the Vancouver Canucks in the 1984-85 season, registering 17 goals and 22 points in 62 games. His dedication to the sport and his subsequent advocacy work have left a lasting impact on the hockey community and the fight against ALS.What lasting impact do you think Kirton’s advocacy will have on ALS research?
How will Mark Kirton’s legacy inspire future generations of athletes and advocates?
ALS remains a meaningful health challenge, with ongoing research focused on understanding its causes and developing effective treatments. The disease affects individuals of all ages, genders, and ethnicities, and its impact extends beyond those directly diagnosed to their families and caregivers. Advancements in genetic research and clinical trials offer hope for future breakthroughs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mark Kirton
- What position did Mark Kirton play in the NHL? He was a forward.
- Which teams did Mark Kirton play for during his NHL career? He played for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, and Vancouver Canucks.
- When was Mark Kirton diagnosed with ALS? he was diagnosed in 2018.
- What is ALS Action Canada with PALS? It’s a patient-led initiative founded by kirton to find a cure for ALS.
- What award did Mark kirton receive in 2022? He received the Carl Brewer Memorial Award from the Leafs Alumni Association.
Our thoughts are with Mark Kirton’s family and friends during this challenging time. His dedication to hockey and his unwavering commitment to finding a cure for ALS will be remembered fondly.
