Chris Snow[Flames Exec] Overcomes Brain Injury Amidst ALS Battle

In a remarkable display of strength and resilience, Chris Snow, the Assistant General Manager and Vice-President of Data and Analytics for the Calgary Flames has defied the odds despite facing a catastrophic brain injury alongside his ongoing battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

A Courageous Battle

For over four years, 42-year-old Chris Snow has been in a relentless battle against ALS, a devastating nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in both the brain and spinal cord. Despite the immense challenges, he showed unwavering determination. ¹

A Sudden Setback

Tragedy struck when, on a fateful Tuesday, Chris suffered a catastrophic brain injury. His wife of nearly 16 years, Kelsie, took to social media to share the heartbreaking news.
Chris had become unresponsive and went into cardiac arrest, leading to a severe brain injury caused by oxygen deprivation. The prognosis was grim, with doctors not expecting him to regain consciousness.

The ALS Struggle

Chris’s ALS diagnosis in June 2019 was compounded by the fact that he carries one of the most aggressive genetic mutations of the disease.
This same genetic mutation had already claimed the lives of his father, two uncles, and a cousin. Despite this, Chris remained dedicated to his work with the Calgary Flames, a journey that began in 2011 when he was appointed as the Director of Hockey Analysis.
Just three months after his ALS diagnosis, he was promoted to Assistant General Manager, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication.

Unwavering Support

Brad Treliving, the General Manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs and a close friend of Chris, flew to Calgary to be by his side during this challenging time.
In a heartfelt interview two years ago, Treliving described Chris as “like my little brother.”
The Flames organization itself acknowledged Chris’s significant impact on the team, praising his leadership and positivity despite his personal struggles.

A Fighter’s Spirit

Mikael Backlund, the Flames’ center, referred to Chris as “a fighter” during a news conference announcing his appointment as captain.
The absence of Chris was deeply felt by his colleagues, with Calgary’s General Manager, Craig Conroy, visibly emotional as he stated, “It just doesn’t seem right to not have him here with us.”

A Data and Analytics Pioneer

In recognition of his exceptional skills, Chris was recently appointed as the Vice-President of Data and Analytics. His contributions to the team extended beyond the ice.

The Power of Hope

Chris’s ALS journey began with numbness in his right hand’s fourth and fifth fingers.
Initially given a grim prognosis, he defied the odds by participating in a clinical trial that significantly slowed the progression of the disease.
Chris continued to work full-time and pursued his passion for hockey, playing shinny in his neighborhood.

Spreading Awareness

Chris and Kelsie took to social media and the internet to share their experiences with ALS.
In December 2019, Kelsie started a blog, “Kelsie Snow Writes,” to document their life with ALS. Later, she launched a podcast called “Sorry, I’m Sad,” where she discusses their journey, grief, loss, and the importance of hope.
The couple also founded a fundraising organization for ALS patients called #weaksidestrong, earning a standing ovation during a presentation at the 2022 NHL awards in Nashville.

Overcoming Setbacks

While Chris’s journey had its share of setbacks, including hospitalizations and life support, he continued to inspire by sharing moments of joy with his family, as seen in his recent pictures cutting the grass and enjoying quality time with his loved ones.

A Love Story

Chris and Kelsie’s love story began when he was a journalist covering the Red Sox for The Boston Globe, and she was an intern in the newspaper’s sports department.
Their love, now enduring for nearly 16 years, has resulted in two beautiful children, a son named Cohen and a daughter named Willa.
Chris Snow’s extraordinary journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. His resilience, courage, and determination in the face of ALS and a catastrophic brain injury continue to inspire and uplift all those who know his story.

Overcoming Adversity: Snow’s Inspiring Journey with ALS

In the face of adversity, some individuals demonstrate remarkable resilience, pushing the boundaries of human potential. This is the story of Snow, a tenacious individual who defied the odds and continued to contribute to the Flames, even after receiving a grim diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). ²

Snow’s Unwavering Commitment

Snow’s unwavering commitment to the Flames organization was truly exceptional.
Despite being diagnosed with ALS, a condition known for its devastating impact on motor skills, speech, and overall quality of life, Snow remained dedicated to his team.
He didn’t let adversity deter him from fulfilling his passion for the sport and his role within the Flames.

Participating in Clinical Trials

One of the remarkable aspects of Snow’s journey was his participation in clinical trials.
These trials offered hope not only for his own battle with ALS but also for countless others facing this cruel disease.
Snow’s decision to become a part of these trials showcased his determination to find a cure and make a difference in the lives of those affected by ALS.

**Chris Snow and his Wife Image Source (NYTimes)**

Beyond the Bleak Prognosis

When Snow was initially diagnosed with ALS, he was given a bleak 12-month prognosis. However, he proved that predictions are not always set in stone. Through sheer willpower and a positive mindset, he continued to live well beyond the expected timeline, defying the odds every day.

The Emotional Impact on the Flames

The Flames, including their general manager, Craig Conroy, felt the emotional weight of Snow’s battle.
In a heartfelt statement, Conroy expressed his deep sense of loss during a press conference where they introduced the new Flames captain, Mikael Backlund.
“It doesn’t seem right not to have Snowy here with me,” Conroy said, visibly emotional. “I was fortunate enough to bring Cohen. Little Snowy’s here, and that means more than you know.”
Snow’s absence left a void within the Flames organization, highlighting the profound impact he had on his teammates and colleagues.

Battling the Ravages of ALS

ALS relentlessly weakened Snow’s muscles, progressively limiting his ability to speak, eat, and eventually even breathe. Despite these physical challenges, he continued to be a source of inspiration for everyone around him. His courage in the face of such adversity showcased the indomitable human spirit.

In Memoriam: Chris Snow, A Remarkable Advocate, Fighter, and Loving Father

A Career Transformed

Chris Snow’s journey into the world of hockey didn’t follow the typical path. Initially a beat reporter for The Boston Globe, he covered the Red Sox with confidence and enthusiasm. ³
It was during this time that he crossed paths with Kelsie, the paper’s summer intern, and their love story began in Fenway Park’s press box.
However, the trajectory of Chris’s career took a dramatic turn when Doug Risebrough, then the general manager of the Minnesota Wild, offered him a unique front-office position.
The move to Minnesota marked a new chapter in their lives, and in 2011, Chris landed the role of director of hockey analysis in Calgary. This career shift was so unusual that it even garnered attention from Esquire magazine.

A Life-Altering Diagnosis

In the midst of building his career and starting a family, Chris Snow faced a formidable adversary: A.L.S. The diagnosis came when their children were just 7 and 4 years old.
A once-able right hand became powerless, leaving everyday tasks like cutting meat or tying shoes seemingly insurmountable.
Despite these challenges, Chris remained determined to work and contribute to the Flames, eventually earning a promotion to assistant general manager.
For Chris, his work was not just a job; it was an integral part of his identity, a way to provide for his family, and a testament to his unwavering resilience.
He understood the importance of being a role model for his children, showing them the value of tenacity in the face of adversity.

The Pursuit of Hope

The Snows embarked on a journey filled with hope when Chris began treatments with Tofersen, a gene therapy developed by Biogen.
Delivered through spinal taps every four weeks, these treatments held the promise of slowing the progression of A.L.S.
For the first six months, uncertainty clouded their hopes, as Chris couldn’t be certain if he was receiving the actual treatment or a placebo.

However, they dared to dream that perhaps the disease had been stalled. That Chris might continue to live life with the use of at least one arm. It was a fragile hope, but it was hope nonetheless.

The Challenges of A.L.S.

A.L.S. relentlessly took its toll on Chris’s body. His facial muscles atrophied, rendering his smile crooked.
Swallowing became increasingly difficult, leading to the necessity of a feeding tube. Despite these challenges, Chris maintained his determination to lead a fulfilling life.
Choking episodes became a constant concern, requiring anti-reflux medication and a special sleeping arrangement.

Yet, amidst the adversity, Chris demonstrated remarkable strength, even being able to perform push-ups and lift his right arm over his head, defying the typical progression of A.L.S.

A Supportive Community

Within the Calgary Flames organization, Chris Snow found a supportive community led by General Manager Brad Treliving.
While it’s natural for people to want to protect and lighten the load for someone battling such a debilitating illness, Chris insisted on continuing his work and being treated as an active contributor.

He reminds everyone that he’s still here, fighting, living for today, and hoping for a brighter tomorrow.

**Chris Snow and his family Image Source (NYTimes)**

A Family’s Strength

The Snows have faced the daunting specter of A.L.S. with incredible strength and humor. Kelsie’s podcast, “Sorry, I’m Sad,” has become a platform to share stories of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
They’ve chosen to live for today while daring to hope for a long and fulfilling future.

Yet, the looming genetic risk that their children face remains an uncertainty they strive to put out of mind, with the belief that progress in A.L.S. research will spare future generations from this debilitating disease.

Conclusion

The story of Chris Snow is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering hope.
Despite the relentless progression of A.L.S., he continues to inspire those around him with his determination to live life to the fullest.
As he and his family chase away the “what-ifs,” they also champion the cause of A.L.S. awareness, believing that a cure is on the horizon.

In the basement, amidst playful family gatherings, Chris Snow’s smile remains a symbol of the indomitable human spirit. His journey, both personal and professional, reminds us that even in the face of adversity, life can still be filled with moments of joy, love, and achievement.