ProMedica and Stemedica Cell Technologies announced this week that they, along with the family of National Hockey League and World Hockey Association legend Gordie Howe, are collaborating on a three-year research project that will focus on traumatic brain injury (TBI).

The Gordie Howe Initiative was formed to support research for TBI and increase overall awareness. TBI’s impact on veterans, athletes, and victims of automobile accidents will be the initiative’s initial focus.

“There is encouraging preliminary evidence that stem cells may have a positive impact on enhancing the quality of life for individuals with TBI,” Lee Hammerling, MD, ProMedica chief medical officer, said in a prepared statement. “We are optimistic about the potential of this research and look forward to working in partnership with Stemedica and other agencies, entities and concerned individuals to form a coalition for advancing potential solutions for TBI.”

“We are delighted to be working with ProMedica and the Gordie Howe family in advancing this initiative,” Maynard A. Howe, PhD, Stemedica vice chairman and chief executive officer, said in the same statement. “Together, through collaboration, innovation and inspiration, we have the opportunity to make significant advancements in traumatic brain injury research at a human level. This unique and dynamic partnership model will allow us to attract the resources we need in order to accelerate possible opportunities for those in need.”

Gordie Howe's connection to this cause goes back to when he suffered a stroke in 2014. He participated in a clinical trial using Stemedica’s stem cell products at that time, which resulted in “significant improvement,” according to the statement.

Besides Howe himself, other well-known athletes, including Olympic goalkeeper Briana Scurry, have also offered their support.