Bryan Bickell diagnosed with multiple sclerosis

The Carolina Hurricanes announced Friday that forward Bryan Bickell has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

Bickell released this statement via the team's official website.

Since the 2015 playoffs, I've been struggling to understand what was going on with my body. Again during the past few weeks, it felt like something wasn't right. Obviously this is a bit of shock for my family and me, but I am hopeful I will be able to return to the ice and continue playing the game that I love.

Hurricanes general manager Ron Francis and Chicago Blackhawks president John McDonough also sent along their best wishes in statements of their own.

Francis requested privacy for the Bickell family as the 30-year-old focuses on his long-term health, and McDonough emphasized how many lasting friendships Bickell has made in Chicago.

Bickell won three Stanley Cups as a member of the Blackhawks after being drafted by the organization 41st overall in 2004. He was dealt to Carolina prior to the start of this season and has appeared in seven games.

Near the end of Bickell's tenure with Chicago, it was reported he was dealing with vertigo. Bickell's agent later dispelled that notion, saying his client was suffering from the effects of an ocular issue.

Multiple sclerosis is a degenerative disease that affects the central nervous system. It can cause inflammation of the protective sheath of nerves, resulting in fatigue and weakness, as well as disruption of coordination, sensation, and cognition.