Saku Koivu was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma in Spetember 2001. This is video of his dramatic return to the game in April of 2002:
Saku Koivu faced the challenge of his life in the fall of 2001. Like a true leader, he fought through it, and was there for his teammates when they needed him most. To further prove he was truly healthy, the following season, Koivu played in all 82 games for just the second time, and posted a career best 71 points. In surviving this ordeal, Koivu proved to everyone that he is a true leader, and silenced all of his critics in the process. As we approach the 2004-05 season and beyond, Koivu remains a key cog in the organization, and whenever he leaves, he will go down as one of the most memorable and celebrated players in the storied history of the Montreal Canadiens.
