Chaz Lucius
Retired Professional Hockey Player
2019 National Team Development Program - USA U17 National Team
2020 National Team Development Program - USA U18 National Team
Won multiple medals to include Gold and Silver
2021 First Round Pick 18th Overall Winnipeg Jets
2021 - 2022 University of Minnesota - Student-Athlete
2022 - Signed three-year entry-level contract with the Jets
2022 U20 Mens Worlds USA Hockey
I had a hattrick to win the bronze medal
2022 - 2025 Professional Hockey Winnipeg, Manitoba
Played exhibition for the Jets and games for their AHL affiliate
Manitoba Moose
My chronic pain, injuries, MCAS escalated right after puberty in 2019. I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease at age 5, and I just thought a lot of my GI issues and pain had to do with that autoimmune disease, so I just kept pushing chasing after my dream. I had four surgeries in five years and too many injuries to count. I could not stay healthy, even did hospital-grade HBOT at Abbot Hospital. I was the only young athlete treated. For the past five years I could not even put my skates on without pain and swelling. I had to have full foot/ankle reconstruction surgery. I also would get sick frequently when traveling during hockey and my symptoms were always severe. It wasn't until my mom was finally diagnosed with EDS at 53 that we finally figured out what was wrong with me. I saw numerous specialists to include Dr. Mark Lavallee. He too has EDS and is featured on the EDS website. I was forced to retire from Professional Hockey after my diagnosis. EDS is not only physically challenging but also mentally challenging. I felt very isolated and alone when I knew my body was failing me and I couldn't perform. I want to tell my story to advocate for others.