As Airdrie prepares for the #StrazStrong Benefit concert tomorrow (June 16th), the Straz himself will be enjoying the event from south of the border. 

Ryan Straschnitzki is continuing his rehabilitation at the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia.

Ryan Straschnitzki welcomes visitors in Philadelphia (Photo Courtesy: Tom Straschnitzki)

Straschnitzki says that he’s been able to make some small breakthroughs recently.

“Yesterday, I went shopping for the first time for about four hours. It’s a whole other ball game, going up hills, going down, shopping for stuff, even finding the right fit for clothes is a bit different. It’s a whole new learning curve and I’m enjoying every step of the way.”

Straschnitzki is hopeful that he will be back home by mid-July at the earliest and is continuously grateful for the support he receives from Airdrie and beyond.

“People reach out on Social Media and send gifts which I can’t thank them enough. It’s been great, the support hasn’t died down at all. Even here in Philly people brought me some Philly Cheesesteaks, it’s just great to see the support.”

When it comes to the Benefit concert, Straschnitzki is overjoyed at how his friends came together to organize such a big event.

“I can’t thank Cody (Thompson) enough for helping set this up. Just seeing the people that are going and all the support again it’s crazy. You’ve got pretty big bands coming up. Normally, you wouldn’t see them come to Airdrie. I really appreciate it.”

Straschnitzki says he will be out of the hospital next week as he will attend the NHL Awards in Las Vegas.

The #StrazStrong Benefit concert goes tomorrow at Genesis Place with the doors opening at 6:00 pm.

 

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