Kitchener, On: November 7, 2009
The Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club has been informed that Ben Fanelli was released from Hamilton General Hospital late Friday night.
"This is obviously an emotional day for the Fanelli family, our organization and community and really for the entire Ontario Hockey League's players and fans. It is still very early in Ben's recovery that will include out-patient treatments at the hospital along with additional supporting treatments at home" stated Rangers C.O.O., Steve Bienkowski.
Ben's mother, Susan Fanelli conveyed the following, "the support from the Kitchener Rangers organization has been wonderful. We are so appreciative it is hard to express."
Restrictions on visiting will remain in effect.
The Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club and the Fanelli family ask that the family's past requests for privacy continue to be honoured.
The Fanelli family and the Rangers Organization again thank the many people who have expressed their concerns and wishes for Ben's recovery. If you wish to send cards or messages, those may be dropped off to the Kitchener Rangers office or emailed to info@kitchenerrangers.com.
Further updates will be made by the Kitchener Rangers when they become available.
On November 3, 2009, the condition of Ben Fanelli was upgraded to serious but stable and on November 5, 2009, he was removed from intensive care.
On Friday night, October 30th, Ben was conscious and transported to Grand River Hospital then immediately air lifted to Hamilton General Hospital.
He suffered a head injury which included skull and facial fractures and a laceration above the eye that was the cause of blood loss.
“Ben’s parents and family experienced something that we all wish would never happen”, said Chief Operating Officer of the Kitchener Rangers, Steve Bienkowski.
“Their focus and concern for their son needs to be respected. I can’t stress enough the need to respect their privacy and that all media inquires and announcements will be made through the Rangers organization. Our immediate focus will be to assist the Fanelli family and our players as we all deal with Ben’s injuries.”
