NHL's San Jose Sharks Leave Teen With Heart Condition in Tears and It was Beautiful - You Will Cry (VIDEO)
Sam Tageson was born with essentially half a heart as the Martinez, Calif. 17-year-old has only two chambers in his heart instead of the usual four, a condition called hypoplastic left heart syndrome. He'll probably need a transplant in time as the condition is life-threatening. However, when it comes to determination and courage, Sam has a full measure.
Against the advice of his doctors, Sam has played hockey since he was 6. His favorite NHL team is the San Jose Sharks, so his wish granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Sharks Foundation was perfect: He became a Sharks player for the day on Tuesday.
Sam signed a one-day contract with the Sharks and practiced with them during the day. That night, he made team history as the first non-player to skate through the trademark Shark head before the game against the Florida Panthers.
This NHL video shows Sam's unforgettable day and his emotional response to all the love.