Talking about Vladimir Konstantinov is sacred ground for me. The fact that Vladdie’s care has not been permanently paid for by the Red Wings aggravates me to no end, and I believe that the former stalwart defenseman’s legacy for both the player he was and the person that he’s become need to be protected.
Konstantinov did a public appearance to further benefit his long-term care and the mess that’s been made of the State of Michigan’s no-fault insurance law’s legacy to long-term survivors of car accidents by the State Legislature.
Detroit Hockey Now’s Kevin Allen posted the news, and I was hesitant to post it earlier today because seeing one of my “favorite players” and people growing up is very difficult for me:
Several groups, including the Detroit Red Wings, are stepping up to help pay some of his living expenses. A GoFundMe page is set-up. As of this morning, more than $42,000 has been raised. The goal is $250,000. Konstantinov’s daughter Anastasia manages the fund. Nine hundred and twenty-eight people have donated money.
Konstantinov is also signing memorabilia items to raise money
Konstantinov, 55, has also been making a few more appearances, like the one he made Sunday. Former Detroit Free Press hockey writer Keith Game posted some photos on Twitter. Konstantinov’s caregivers believe the signings and appearances are good therapy for him.
Alan Moore, through his company SportsGraphing.com, has raised thousands of dollars for the cause through the sale of autographed Konstantinov memorabilia. All funds raised from these sales go directly to Konstantinov’s Special Needs Fund.
Classy former Red Wings coach Dave Lewis stopped by to see Vladdie Sunday. Konstantinov always remembers his former teammates and coaches.
Continued; here’s one of the pictures that my friend Chris posted on Twitter:
It was great to meet Vladdy today. All the proceeds are going to the fund set up for his care. He shook my hand and said hi. After the pic I told him to have a good day and he said yes and gave me a head nod. Truly one if the biggest “what if” tragedies in all of sports #LGRW pic.twitter.com/Lr2Xo58ePb
— 4th_Line_All_Star (@Chris_Boudrie) August 6, 2022
I know that it’s not easy to talk about the accident and its aftermath, but the person that Vladimir Konstantinov is today is a frickin’ miracle, as is Sergei Mnatsakanov. I believe that the Red Wings need to do much more to ensure that Vladdie’s team of representatives doesn’t have to lift a finger to ensure that he is cared for for the rest of his life. The same should be true for Mnatsakanov.
