Josh Harding was a young boy when he found his love and passion for the Sport of Hockey. He worked hard and achieved his goal when he was drafted 38th overall in the 2002 NHL draft (by the Minnesota Wild).
He played lots of games for the AHL team and the NHL team...but his life took a drastic turn just a few years ago. Shortly after signing a three year contract with the Minnesota Wild in 2012, the goaltender was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.
Though he only announced the diagnosis in November, he had kept it quiet when he originally found out in September. He missed some time, but when he returned after getting some treatment for the diagnosis, he recorded a shut-out win against the Dallas Stars (with 24 saves).
For the 2014-2015 season, Harding was contending to be either a number one goalie but suffered from a broken foot. Months later, after recovering he was taken off Injured Reserve and was put on waivers. He cleared waivers and was sent down to the Iowa Wild to play.
Harding played two games all season. In his second game, he suffered dehydration and had to spend time in the hospital. The dehydration was caused by the Multiple Sclerosis.
Earlier this week (Week of May 16th)...it was rumored that Harding will retire this summer to focus on his health and living a full life. News is not yet official, but when we get some updates, we will post them.