RECOGNITION OF PRO’S NEWEST BOARD MEMBER, MICHAEL LU ANAHEIM DUCKS: THE INSPIRING TRADITION OF THE 21ST DUCK

Perseverance, courage, integrity, determination, and inspiration. These are the characteristics that embody the 21st Duck. The tradition is still new to the Anaheim Ducks, but their stories have touched us in a remarkable way.

The Anaheim Ducks introduced their 21st Duck during the home opener on October 8th. This tradition started four years ago, and each story has continued to inspire Ducks Nation. For me, personally, the Ducks always seem to nominate their 21st Duck during periods of my life when I need the reminder to never give up. Although they have faced difficulties, they are the perfect example of never giving up when things get though.

Michael Lu: Fighting to Find a Cure for Parkinson’s

This year, the Anaheim Ducks and Ryan Getzlaf had the distinct honor of asking Michael Lu to be their 21st Duck. Lu, who is 29-years-old, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement and can cause tremors, impaired balance, slowed movement, and speech changes. There is no known cure for the disease, and it will progressively get worse, eventually cutting short his ability to play hockey.

     However, in the face of this giant obstacle, Michael has not allowed his disease to rule his life. He works at Anaheim Ice as a hockey coach. Not only is he teaching these kids how to play the sport he loves, but he’s also teaching them not to give up when difficulties come your way.

Our 21st Ducks is studying towards his master’s degree in educational psychology so that he can help children with disabilities. He is also relentlessly heading up the search to find a cure for Parkinson’s. By serving on the board of directors for the Parkinson’s Resource Organization, he is hoping that someday, people like him will finally have a cure.

     Michael is a beautiful example of the bravery it takes to not let your disease define you. His story will go on to inspire many people, and Ducks Nation is proud to have him as our 21st Duck for the 2018–19 season.