A dedicated member of the Steinbach Pistons volunteer family became suddenly very ill and was transferred from Bethesda Regional Health Centre in Steinbach to Winnipeg by STARS on March 10.
Then, on Thursday evening, at the Pistons' Farewell and Awards Banquet held at the Pat Porter Active Living Centre in Steinbach, a special moment was dedicated to Tasha Wiese.
Mike Kehler, the Pistons' chaplain, gave an emotional update on Tasha's condition, recounting how she has been a devoted team volunteer and a community staple.
"Tasha has been a devout Pistons fan and volunteer for years," Kehler began. "Just 3 1/2 weeks ago, she was at our last game in La Broquerie, helping out on camera alongside broadcaster Dave Anthony. Then the following weekend, she developed a cough and cold that quickly turned into something much worse. By Monday, she was seriously ill and rushed to the hospital."
Kehler shared that doctors struggled to pinpoint the cause of her condition, but they eventually determined that strep and sepsis had taken hold.
"By Tuesday afternoon, they had to make a life-or-death decision. They amputated both of her legs and hands to save her life," he explained.
Despite the overwhelming circumstances, Kehler noted that Tasha remained fiercely dedicated to the Pistons.
"She wore a Pistons jersey while in a coma – that's how much the team and the community meant to her," he said.
Kehler urged those gathered to keep Tasha and her husband in their thoughts and prayers and to consider donating to the GoFundMe page that has been set up to help support Tasha and her family.
"This is going to be a long journey for them, but the outpouring of support has been incredible," he said.
Following the emotional tribute, Kehler reflected on how tough it was to share the news, but also acknowledged the strength that the community had shown.
"It's devastating to see someone go through this, but seeing the support has been amazing. We need each other, and it's heartwarming to see how everyone has come together for Tasha," he said.
Pistons' head coach Paul Dyck also spoke about Tasha's impact on the team.
"Tasha has been with us for a long time," Dyck said. "She gave so much to our organization, always with a smile on her face, working behind the scenes with video and music. To hear about what she's going through now... It’s heartbreaking."
Dyck was also moved by the generosity shown during the event.
"The Pistons organization will be making a donation to the GoFundMe, and even the person who won the 50/50 prize tonight decided to donate their share back to Tasha," he shared. "It’s a true reflection of the community that has supported her for so many years."
When asked what he would say to Tasha if he could speak with her, Dyck replied,
"I sent her a video message letting her know that we can't wait to see her back in the building. We’re all praying for her recovery, and there will be a day when she returns. We’ll be here waiting for her."
The evening ended on a hopeful note, with the Pistons family rallying behind Tasha, showing that no matter the challenges, they stand together – on and off the ice.
As Tasha continues her fight for recovery, the community’s support, from GoFundMe donations to heartfelt messages, remains strong.
* Photo 1 - Tasha volunteering with the Pistons in the sound booth at the Centenial Arena in Steinbach in October 2015.
* Photo 2 - Tasha volunteering with the Pistons as video camera operating at the HyLife Arena in La Broquerie in March 2025.