How 3 Letters Changed My Life | Scott Matzka | TEDxUofM

What choices would you make if you were told you had a fatal disease and only had a few years to live? Michigan alumnus, hockey player, and founder of MyTurn, Scott Matzka, has radically changed his community and his perspective on life once he was diagnosed with ALS. Through his disease, Matzka encourages people to build each other up with compassion and to radiate optimism within the community.
Scott Matzka is a 38 year-old father of two and a retired professional ice hockey player.
As a student at Michigan, Matzka lead the Wolverines to the 1998 NCAA National Championship. He went on to have a successful 11-year career in North American and European professional leagues. In September of 2015, Matzka was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a rapidly progressive and invariably fatal neurological disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
Despite his diagnosis, Matzka remains energized and believes that it is his turn to speak out and stand out. His inspiring story continues to raise awareness and support for families battling against ALS.
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx

[@saktaframat2031]

I just read about your passing and went to Google, of course, to find out more about you. Thank you very much for this Ted talk, even though I'm your typical none sport interested middle aged woman way up in the north (Sweden) you gave me so much information both about ALS and what a interesting human being you are (were...) May you rest in peace.

[@RichelleHeacock]

My cousin was just diagnosed with als. Praying for a breakthrough for all suffering from this insidious disease

[@gophersk]

recently diagnosed. fortunate my children are grown. would have loved to see my grand children grow up.

[@dl7281]

Tough road. How’re you doing? Hope you have some good friends and family close.

[@GlennSteffy]

Scott, you are a game changer. KUDOS !!

[@hvanmegen]

I couldn't help but feel sadness to see such a vibrant life dimmed by this disease, I really hope they find a cure for ALS some day soon... but man.. what a character; he certainly has an outlook to aspire to.. bravo Scott.. I'll do my best with my days spent with my loved ones!

[@VisitGlacier]

I am so honored to share your story in my next book, Scott. Jessica and I work together at Pathways and she and Bobby are some of my best climbing partners!

[@MCMarsh70]

RIP Scott, an amazing story, I will always remember.

[@Monberg30]

R.I.P Scotty, my former temate

[@Blandio]

Very PogChamp

[@misaelchavarin5931]

🙏

[@PriyankaGupta-ew1li]

😖😖😖😖😖