A Hockey Player His Whole Life
Jon has played hockey all of his life up through the competitive high school level. Since graduating, he has stayed a member of the hockey community in various recreation leagues. In addition he was coached by his father, Al, who is also a very long-term member of the hockey community and still skating today in the St. Louis area.
Paralyzed From the Mid-Chest Down
The injuries Jon sustained at work have left him paralyzed from the mid-chest down so his personal and financial challenges going forward for the rest of his life will be quite significant. Jon Orelt was nominated not just because he was such a long standing member of the hockey community, the severity of his injuries and their permanence. His strength and character as a person are also strong reasons for his nomination. Jon is already an incredible young man who at the very early age of 25 had already established himself in life and was working hard towards a great future. We want to ensure that he is able to stay that course despite this setback.
Our First Shot of Support
December was the season of Giving Back! December 7th was another special day as we surprised a very deserving Jon Orelt with a check for $13,450. In September, this young man’s life changed forever when he was electrocuted and suffered broken neck in a freak accident in St. Louis. Spending the last three months at the world renowned Craig Hospital, Jon has an incredible attitude and is already making great strides.
“Beeks” Presents the Check
We witnessed a few tears, but mostly smiles, as Cody “Beeks” Beekman joined us in helping this terrific 25 year old with an infectious smile! The Orelt’s are now Dawgs for life and we can’t wait to see Jon back on the ice as strives to take on his next challenge as stud sled hockey player!!
In the meantime, we are busy planning and preparing for the Jonny O 3vs 3 for April 17 and 18. It is shaping up to be an amazing tribute and event to Jon.
Jon is progressing well through his recovery at Craig. “This kid’s attitude is so positive and stong, an incredible outlook and attitude,” says his nominator Rhett Brantley. 
Jon (left) battling for the puck as a member of the “Fighting Amish.”
Jon’s hockey family. Jon is far left, playing goalie for the day against a bunch of ‘benders.”
Al says if you are in this picture, get your wallets out.
Proud father and son 
Jon (farleft) and teammates enjoying the spolis of victory
Let’s rally to help this fellow hockey player. We can lift some of the burden through your generous donation today.
Or mail check to:
Dawg Nation Hockey FoundationPO Box 182
Indian Hills, CO 80454
Dawg Nation will collect all funds donated and determine the final amount provided to the recipient. Dawg Nation cannot guarantee that the full amount of your donation will reach the recipient. That said, Dawg Nation has historically provided final amounts to recipients in excess of the total amount of funds collected.
Praying for the Orelt Family – much love to Jon!
Jonny O has always been one of my favorite teammates and friends. He will do anything for a fellow player and his tenacity is unmatched. If anyone can fight back it’s Jon, I believe in him. He’s a beast, and one of the best people you will ever get to know.