Former Boston University hockey player, spinal cord injury research advocate Travis Roy dies at 45
98.5 The Sports Hub staff report
Travis Roy, the former Boston University hockey player who was paralyzed just 11 seconds into his collegiate career and later became a spinal cord injury research advocate, died Thursday at the age of 45.
“It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Travis Roy,” BU Athletics confirmed in a statement. “His story is the epitome of inspiration and courage, and he was a role model and a hero to so many people. Travis’ work and dedication towards helping fellow spinal cord-injury survivors is nothing short of amazing. His legacy will last forever, not just within the Boston University community, but with the countless lives he has impacted across the country. Our sincere thoughts are with his wonderful family as well as his vast support group of friends and colleagues.”
Roy’s passing came just days after the 25th anniversary of his tragic accident with the Terriers.
Devoting his life to spinal cord injury research, The Travis Roy Foundation, which was founded in 1996, has distributed millions of dollars in grants to help fund research projects and day-to-day life improvements to those with spinal injuries.
“It is the wish of every paralyzed person that one day their wheelchair will no longer be needed,” the foundation’s website reads. “The Travis Roy Foundation has awarded over $4.7 million in research grants. For researchers and scientists the most important question is basic: How can an injured spinal cord regenerate and reconnect the “wires” from the brain to the muscles and nerves throughout the body? Researchers are working tirelessly on many different fronts to solve challenges related to paralysis, but the research is expensive and a cures is likely still years away.
“The more money we raise, the sooner a cure will be found.”
On the 20th anniversary of his incident, the Bruins signed Roy to a one-day contract (and donated $50,000 to his foundation), while Mayor Marty Walsh declared Oct. 20 “Travis Roy Day.”
“Travis Roy was the ultimate symbol of determination and courage,” Bruins president Cam Neely said in a statement. “The impact that Travis had on the New England hockey community is immeasurable, and his relentless advocacy for spinal cord research was inspiring.
“The Bruins offer sincere condolences to the Roy family, the Travis Roy Foundation, Boston University, and all of those who knew and loved Travis Roy.”
You can donate to The Travis Roy Foundation by clicking here.
