UPDATE: Official update given on Sunday regarding paralyzed two-time Olympic Medalist

In a heartbreaking development for the hockey community, 26-year-old Finnish hockey player and two-time Olympic medalist, Sanni Hakala, faces a challenging journey after a recent game incident.

Recent reports from Finland revealed that Hakala is now paralyzed from the waist down following a tough incident during a game between HV71, her team, and Djurgarden of the Swedish Women's Hockey League (SDHL).

The incident occurred in the opening minutes of the game when Hakala, in swift motion, attempted to position herself in front of the net. Unfortunately, a loss of balance led to a collision with the ice, sending her headfirst into the goal post.

Medical staff swiftly attended to Hakala, providing immediate care before transporting her on a stretcher to an ambulance bound for the hospital. The latest news, as reported by a paramedic in Jonkopings-Posten, confirms the paralysis resulting from the incident.

Today, on Sunday, November 26th, Hockey World Wide provided an update on Hakala's condition. While the injuries do not appear to be life-threatening, the news is far from optimistic.

According to the update, Hakala is awake and breathing, but she cannot feel her legs, remaining paralyzed from the waist down due to the incident on Friday. Though it is still early, the possibility of Hakala being permanently paralyzed is a distressing outcome.

This unfortunate turn of events brings a somber mood, and our thoughts are with the Hakala family as they undoubtedly wait for more information on her condition.