Zednik sends thanks for support

BUFFALO, N.Y., Feb. 13 (UPI) -- Florida Panthers forward Richard Zednik and his wife issued a statement of thanks for support following an injury in which Zednik's neck artery was cut.

Zednik, 32, was injured Sunday in the third period of a road game against the Buffalo Sabres when a falling teammate's skate sliced his neck, cutting Zednik's carotid artery. He underwent surgery at a Buffalo, N.Y., hospital and is listed in good condition.

"On behalf of Richard and our entire family, I want to thank the fans, his teammates, the Panthers and Sabres organizations, plus so many others for their prayers and well wishes," his wife, Jessica Zednik, said. "I especially want to thank the medical staff involved in his care and the Buffalo General Hospital for their tremendous support during this difficult time.

"Richard continues to improve and we are encouraged each day. We thank you for respecting our privacy and would ask everyone to continue to keep Richard in their thoughts over the next few days."

The surgeon in the case, Dr. Sonya Noor, told a news conference that Zednik continues to improve and could be discharged form the hospital by the weekend.

She had previously said it would be about six weeks before Zednik could return to his usual activities, meaning his hockey season is over.