In recognition of his distinguished career in hockey, as well as his steadfast support of concussion-related research, Eric Lindros was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws, honoris causa (LLD) at the Monday afternoon session of Western’s 311th Convocation.
Lindros spoke to graduates from the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Brescia University College and the Faculty of Health Sciences, stressing the importance of research and advances in modern science in preventing, treating and understanding concussions.
Concussions are an epidemic and extend beyond sports, Lindros said. Research, and supporting research, will “help us diagnose injuries, diagnose more efficiently and will lead us to better, more wholistic treatment options,” he noted.
“We still have a lot of work to do. Isn’t that always the case? I want to encourage and incentivize scientists to do a better job of collaborating. I believe research will pave the way forward and help us better understand issues around traumatic brain injuries,” said Lindros, a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame and former Olympian whose career was shortened by injury.
"Imagine the possibilities if we had the brightest minds in science, sharing ideas and constructive criticism." – Eric Lindros #purpleandproud
— #WesternU LIVE (@westernuLIVE) June 18, 2018
The Lindros Legacy Research Building at the London Health Sciences Centre was established on the strength of $5 million gift from the former NHL superstar.
“Leave here today knowing this graduation may be the close of one chapter but it opens many more. Remember that you do can be part of a process to affect important change and make things happen. And somewhere along the way, you, too, can give back. Never stop trying to be great.”