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A scary situation unfolded Monday night on the Nordiques bench. First line left winger Gio “GQ” Orlandi suffered a cardiac related injury during the teams tilt versus the Whales. “It was a surreal incident that transcended the hockey game” stated blueliner Colin Neville.

After several strong first period shifts Gio was found slumped over on the bench and in noticeable distress. Concern over his line mate and life partner, Dr David Podolan assessed his fallen comrade. “He described his symptoms and I quickly evaluated him. Gio told me that his heart was beating out of his chest. He was tachycardic and had a look of impending doom on his face”. Gio was experiencing possible signs of the life threatening diagnosis Torsades de Pointes.

Team doctors were quickly summoned by Nordique elder statesmen Hal Doherty. “I saw them hooking him up with wires and IV’s and stuff. They were working frantically to revive Gio”. Dr Vapey D realized that time was of the essence and pushed team doctors aside. Reliving the incident, power forward Jeremy Coan said “I saw Dave P grab the defibrillator and zap Gio back to life. It was amazing!”.

After suffering the devastating near death incident, Gio demanded to get back on the ice. Speaking in third person, “Theres no “I” in Gio Orlandi. Im all about my team and I couldnt leave my brothers and substitute tendie Troy Otto shorthanded”. Gio finished the game strong and had several quality goal scoring opportunities late in the contest. The silent assassin Eric Lepoudre stated “He showed a lot of heart (get it) out there. It was inspiring. He can play on my team any day!”

There was some confusion in the Dique locker room post game. Team GM Panty Dropper questioned Gio about his ailment. “What is it… your wrist?” inquisitive Drager asked. Bin abruptly interjected “No dude, its his heart!” Jeremy was apparently unaware of the seriousness that transpired just moments before.

The player went through extensive medical testing in the ICU at Beaumont Royal Oak Hospital. At this point, it was determined that Orlandi is fit to play and will have no long term effects. “We need G. Hes the straw that stirs the drink for our Club. Im glad hes gonna be ok” said Darren “Wood Stick” Cunningham. The Nordiques will look to rebound next week and come back alive just as Orlandi did last night.

Nordiques Beat Reporter

Dickie Dunn