Hockey Fights Cancer's signature colour, lavender, was evident throughout Rogers Place, with lavender rink boards and in-bowl lighting. Additionally, Oilers players used lavender tape during warm-up and donned special Hockey Fights Cancer helmet decals during the game. For the first time, Oilers players took to the ice in lavender warm-up jerseys, which will be available for auction at a later date at OilersFoundation.ca. Oilers Management and Coaches showcased their support by wearing the official lavender Hockey Fights Cancer ties and pins. The 50/50 beneficiary for the night was the Canadian Cancer Society, and local charities who assist in the fight against cancer were also invited to attend the game.
The game was highlighted by several special moments. The evening kicked off as both Oilers and Golden Knights players honoured their cancer heroes and causes as they held up "I Fight For..." cards. The crowd joined in to shine a light on the cause and Rogers Place fell silent for a moment of silence. The Oilers continued to celebrate the strength and spirit of cancer survivors and fighters as the ceremonial puck drop included a brave thirteen-year-old who has been battling Osteosarcoma for the past year, with support from the Kids with Cancer Society. Ava DeGannes was diagnosed in March 2017 and has undergone nine months of chemotherapy, a knee replacement and three lung surgeries in her battle with the disease. She hopes to one day become a doctor so she can give back to the Society and other families in similar circumstances, a testament to her spirit.
Net proceeds from this annual Hockey Fights Cancer fundraiser benefit the Kids with Cancer Society's BrainWorks program and the EOCF. The Kids with Cancer Society helps children diagnosed with cancer and their families throughout Northern Alberta handle various issues - from the time of diagnosis throughout treatment and beyond - through support clinical programs and research as they navigate cancer treatment or cope with cognitive late effects.
"Too often children with cancer experience learning and social difficulties due to the effects of rigorous treatments. Thanks to the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation, the BrainWorks program continues to flourish and has allowed the Kids with Cancer Society to provide an innovative program that helps children learn and develop social skills," said Kids with Cancer Society Executive Director Val Figliuzzi.
"The program, provided at no cost to families, bridges the gap between the students learning needs, coping skills and the school system. To date, the program has been accessed more than 3,000 times, providing children with the opportunity to live productive and satisfying lives and encouraging them to reach one goal at a time. We are grateful for the EOCF's ongoing support and their desire to make a difference in the lives of children with cancer."
Fans can showcase their Hockey Fights Cancer support throughout November. 'I Fight For' signs are available on NHL.com to download and share on social media with #HockeyFightsCancer. Fans are encouraged to show their support by tagging @EdmontonOilers and @Oil_Foundation on social media.
You can also show your support for the Kids with Cancer Society by bidding in the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation's Hockey Fights Cancer Online Charity Auction from November 6-20, 2018.
For more information, please visit
OilersFoundation.ca
.
