VIDEO: Wayne Gretzky stars in new vaccine commercial with younger self

Modified Oct 24, 2023 03:28 GMT

Hockey legend Wayne Gretzky has teamed up with a cutting-edge vaccine company to deliver a vital message: the importance of protecting older adults against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). In an Instagram post that quickly garnered attention, Gretzky featured alongside his younger self, emphasizing the significance of safeguarding one's health in later years.

RSV is a highly contagious virus known to cause respiratory infections in individuals of all age groups. Its seasonal circulation, with peaks during fall and winter, presents a particular threat to older adults. In this demographic, RSV can lead to severe lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD), often resulting in life-threatening conditions such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, RSV annually triggers a staggering number of hospitalizations and deaths among adults aged 65 and above, with 60,000-120,000 hospitalizations and 6,000-10,000 fatalities in the United States alone.

The vaccine in question, Arexvy manufactured by GSK, offers a straightforward solution to the pressing issue. Administered as a single dose, it is specifically designed to protect individuals aged 60 and older from RSV, reducing the risk of severe LRTD and its associated complications.

Wayne Gretzky's involvement in promoting Arexvy underscores the importance of preventive measures and responsible health choices.

Wayne Gretzky and NORTHLAND join forces to make hockey affordable for all

Wayne Gretzky has joined hands with NORTHLAND, an iconic hockey stick brand, to address a longstanding issue: the high cost associated with playing hockey in Canada and the United States.

In a collaborative effort with the Wayne Gretzky Foundation, Gretzky has launched an initiative to alleviate the financial burden that has traditionally deterred several young, aspiring players from stepping onto the ice. Hockey, deeply ingrained in the culture of both nations, has seen equipment costs act as a significant barrier for newcomers.

Notably, NORTHLAND is the very brand of hockey stick that Gretzky used during his illustrious NHL career. What adds a special touch to this partnership is that NORTHLAND hockey sticks are manufactured in Brantford, Ontario, Canada, which happens to be the hometown of the Gretzky family.

This partnership aims to provide affordable hockey stick bundles, with options starting at just three for $99.00, inclusive of shipping charges across Canada and the continental United States. The goal is to democratize the sport, ensuring that children of all backgrounds, whether boys or girls, can pursue their dreams on the ice.

Wayne Gretzky and NORTHLAND are not only preserving the rich legacy of hockey but are also making strides to ensure it evolves and remains accessible to a new generation of players.