Exter Returns Home

Injured Merrimack goaltender Joe Exter has returned home after spending nearly four weeks in two hospitals in Boston.

“Joe is making a remarkable recovery from the head injury. He will continue his rehabilitation from home,” said Heechin Chae, MD, associate medical director, Inpatient Brain Injury Program, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Network.

“It is too early to predict the long-term outcome regarding a return to playing hockey. However, I am confident that he will lead a normal life.”

Exter spent nearly three weeks at Boston’s Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital after suffering a fractured skull and other head injuries during a Hockey East quarterfinal game on March 7.

On March 27, the senior captain was moved to Spaulding, also in Boston. He was discharged from Spaulding this morning and returned to his home in Cranston, R.I., to begin outpatient rehab.

While at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital, Exter was originally listed in critical condition and was later upgraded to serious, and eventually fair condition.

“We are extremely happy for Joe and his family today,” said Merrimack President Richard J. Santagati. “Although we know that Joe still faces challenges as he continues to recover, we also know it must feel great for all of them to be together again at home.”