I don't know about leaving a mark on Minnesotans in general, but if it doesn't leave a mark on Minnesota youth/high school hockey, it will be really unfortunate. Parents need to make sure the coaches teach safe checking techniques and don't just tell the kids to go for the body. Parents and coaches need to make sure the refs consistently call penalties on checks from behind, whether they are intentional or accidental. If there aren't consequences, there won't be reason for the players to make sure not to do it.

The outpouring of support and concern for Jack Jablonski is like nothing I have ever seen.(Social media is the vehicle!) This is one special kid. The two powerhouses behind him-youth hockey families and private, Catholic schools have rightly shown their sorrow for the injury of one of their own. It is heartbreaking. I believe, with so much support behind him, the issue of making hockey safer will not go away. I believe his life-altering injury will provide much needed momentum for changes in how the game is played. No one should become paralyzed playing a sport. It seems that he has the type of personality and support system that can be instrumental in creating awareness and promoting change. I do not even know Jack or his family personally, but my feeling is that something great will come out of this tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with them daily.

Very thoughtful comments by Sandy and Heidi both. What do others think? What will be the long term impact of Jack's injury on the hockey community and the larger Minnesota community?

He will change the way hockey is viewed in Minnesota forever and hopefully players will be more aware now.