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‘Canes recall Bickell for first time since MS diagnosis

Carolina Hurricanes v Winnipeg Jets

WINNIPEG, MANITOBA - OCTOBER 13: Paul Postma #4 of the Winnipeg Jets and Bryan Bickell #29 of the Carolina Hurricanes head to the Carolina zone during NHL action on October 22, 2016 at the MTS Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba. (Photo by Jason Halstead /Getty Images)

Jason Halstead

Bryan Bickell’s comeback took another significant turn on Monday, as Carolina announced he’d been recalled from AHL Charlotte.

Bickell, in the midst of a conditioning stint following his multiple sclerosis diagnosis, got the recall after scoring four points in 10 games for the Checkers.

The 31-year-old was diagnosed with MS in October, and was sidelined through late February while adjusting to his new medicinal regimen.

Bickell’s treatment is a monthly intravenous of Tysabri, a drug which helps limit the effects of MS. Per NHL.com, he originally aimed to return to the ‘Canes following their bye week, targeting a home date against the Avalanche on Feb. 17.

But the decision was made for him to get more skating and games in before resuming play with the ‘Canes.

“I’ll tell you what: he’s done everything he possibly can to get himself ready and get back at it, so we’ll see where it leads,” head coach Bill Peters said at the time of sending Bickell to the minors, per the ‘Canes website. “It’s an unreal source of inspiration, and his attitude has been fantastic through this whole thing.

“I give him nothing but credit there.”

Bickell could re-enter the Carolina lineup tomorrow, when the ‘Canes take on the Wild in Minnesota.