Two quick stories concerning a group of heroes that will be joining us the next couple home games.

Jon Chase

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January 8, 2010 vs. Avalanche - Super-Swimmer and Raleigh Native Tucker Dupree will be sounding the Hurricanes Warning Siren before the game. Dupree is a world-ranked Paralympic swimmer, who since 2006 has raked in over 40 medals, broken numerous records and was a recent nominee for the News and Observer Top High School Athlete of the Decade.

Tucker Dupree is 20-year-old, visually impaired athlete who has excelled in the sport of swimming. Tucker lost his vision at age 17 when he was diagnosed with a rare disease called Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON).

Tucker, a gold medalist and world record holder, is one of the top blind swimmers in America holding a World Record in the 100m Butterfly, 25 American Records and 6 Pan-American Records.

Tucker continues to inspire everyone with his positive attitude and outlook on life. He is very determined who focuses on his ability and not his disability as he strives to achieve his goals.

January 10, 2010 vs. Ottawa - Join us for our seventh annual Military Appreciation Day. We will once again have a full lineup of vehicles and weapons on the front lawn before the game. I know it is going to be cold, but take 10-15 minutes to visit the static displays, meet the service men and women at the various stations,and most importantly pass along your thanks.  This day is all about saying thank you to our brave men and women that are protecting this country. 

In addition to the pre-game display on the front lawn, there will be representation from various military branches throughout the main concourse. During the game we will also honor and recognize active, reserve and retired military.