One More Time: The Mario Lemieux Story

Video excerpts from the documentary Download RealPlayer
Mario plays through excruciating back pain
Mario is diagnosed with Hodgkin's Disease

If boyhood dreams always came true, Canada might well be a nation of hockey stars. While Mario Lemieux's dreams may have been common, the outcome has been anything but. In the NHL, his exploits are legendary. But his journey has not been easy. From debilitating injuries to a heroic battle with Hodgkin's Disease, Lemieux has faced adversity at every step of his career. Next week, he faces the ultimate challenge - to captain the 2002 Canadian Olympic Hockey team in Salt Lake City. The hopes of an entire country will be riding on his shoulders, but Mario Lemieux is used to carrying a heavy load.

Mario  Lemieux
Mario Lemieux

Mario  Lemieux
Mario Lemieux

With the participation of family, friends, teammates and Lemieux himself, the documentary follows his journey from pee wee hockey star, to NHL superstardom, to owner/player of his own hockey franchise - the Pittsburgh Penguins. The program showcases his spirit, dedication and passion for the game of hockey while overcoming enormous personal and professional obstacles. While many sports fans know of Lemieux's battle with Hodgkin's Disease and his ongoing trials with debilitating back pain, few are aware of the depth of Lemieux's steely resolve and determination to continue playing the game he loves.

Lemieux's considerable contributions can be felt off the ice as well. After winning his battle with Hodgkin's disease, Lemieux established The Lemieux Foundation, which supports cancer research programs in the United States and Canada. Following his son's premature birth, The Foundation was expanded to include support for neonatal research. Last year, Lemieux's one-day Celebrity Golf Invitational raised an impressive 1.3 million dollars for the charity.

Original Air Date - February 5, 2002

Links

Mario Lemieux official Web site

The Mario Lemieux Foundation

The Pittsburgh Penguins

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