TAMPA, Fla. — Mark Shymanski, 8, wants to be a hockey player when he grows up. That dream may not happen if his health doesn’t change.
It’s expected that Shymanski, who lives in Manatee County, will lose his eyesight. He was born prematurely and deals with heart issues as well, according to AdventHealth representatives.
However, his goal of getting on the ice has already happened thanks to AdventHealth and the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Shymanski was able to reach his goal with a private skating experience and player meet-and-greet with the Tampa Bay Lightning at AMALIE Arena during Christmas break from school. Shymanski is the first AdventHealth patient to experience something like this from the hospital’s new 'Goal -Getters' program, which offers patients a change to achieve ‘goals’ that help them progress towards a healthier, happier life.
Thursday, January 9, the Lightning invited Shymanski and his family back to the arena to watch the team host the Arizona Coyotes. During the game, the team played a video of Shymanski skating on the ice.
Tampa Bay community members can apply to have their ‘goals’ met through AdventHealth as well.
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