BY JASON LA CANFORA 
Free Press Sports Writer 
Red Wings defenseman Slava Fetisov remains touched by the outpouring of warmth since the June limousine accident that nearly killed him, defenseman Vladimir Konstantinov and massage therapist Sergei Mnatsakanov. 

Fetisov has accumulated four huge boxes of letters. Friday, he asked the Free Press to publish a letter to fans. 

"It is so touching, so emotional," said Fetisov, 39. Every letter the people send me is from the heart. Especially from the kids; you can tell from their handwriting they are 6, 7, 8 years old. They send stuffed animals, usually bears, but sometimes other animals. Each letter is very special to me." 

Fetisov's letter: 

Hello: 

 This summer, my family, friends and I went through a very tragic experience. It helped us recover faster knowing there were people like you out there praying for a speedy recovery. My family and I would personally like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all your warm wishes and get well cards. It meant so much to my wife, Ladlena, my daughter, Anastasia, and myself, that you were praying for us. We could not believe all the boxes and boxes of warm get-well cards, pictures, children's drawings, stuffed bears, guardian angel pins and so many other special things we received and are still receiving. It puts tears to our eyes when we read these touching letters. We never knew so many people really cared. We received get-well wishes not only from Michigan, but from all over the United States, Russia, Canada and Europe. It is so nice to know that there are such loving and caring people in today's world. 

I am sorry it took so long to thank everyone. I had hoped to answer each letter individually, but because of the overwhelming amount of mail I received, it is not humanly possible to do so. But I want each and everyone of you to know how much it meant to my family and me. It was so thoughtful and a very special thing for you to do. 

In Russia, we have a belief that when people think positive thoughts about someone, their vibes and prayers are sent to that person and help heal. I know if it wasn't for all the support and love of my family, friends and fans, I would not be where I am today. My great friends Vladimir and Sergei love all the mail they have received. Please continue to write to them and pray for them because this really helps them with their healing process. 

Your friend, Slava Fetisov