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NHL Alumni Rally for Kelly Chase in Second Annual Puck Cancer Charity Game

about 1 year agoUS
NHL Alumni Rally for Kelly Chase in Second Annual Puck Cancer Charity GameSource: nhl.com
The hockey community demonstrated its strong bonds as St. Louis Blues and NHL alumni gathered for the second annual Puck Cancer Second Shift Alumni game. The event, held at Centene Community Ice Center on Friday, April 5, 2025, aimed to support former Blues forward Kelly Chase in his ongoing battle with leukemia and raise funds for cancer research.

Key Insights

Event Purpose:: Raise funds for Siteman Cancer Center and The V Foundation for Cancer Research, inspired by Kelly Chase's fight against acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Kelly Chase's Status:: Chase, currently battling AML for a second time and recovering from a bone marrow transplant, is in remission but was advised not to participate on-ice.

Strong Turnout:: The event saw participation from numerous Blues and Blackhawks alumni, along with celebrity players and coaches, highlighting the deep respect and affection for Chase.

Community Spirit:: The gathering underscored the unique brotherhood within hockey, with players flying in from across locations to support one of their own.

Fundraising Success:: The inaugural event in 2024 successfully raised $600,000 for cancer research.

Why this matters:: This event showcases the powerful support system within professional sports and its capacity to rally for crucial causes like cancer research, providing both emotional and financial aid.

In-Depth Analysis

The second Puck Cancer Second Shift Alumni game brought together a star-studded lineup of former NHL players and celebrities, united in their support for Kelly Chase. Chase, a beloved figure known for his contributions both on and off the ice during his 11-year NHL career primarily with the St. Louis Blues, is facing his second bout with acute myeloid leukemia. Despite being in remission following chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, doctors recommended he conserve strength, preventing him from playing.

The roster included Blues alumni like Brian Elliott, Kevin Shattenkirk, Alexander Steen, Steve Ott, Jim Montgomery, Scottie Upshall, and Paul Stastny, facing off against Blackhawks alumni such as Chris Chelios, Ray Whitney, and Stu Grimson. Celebrity participants included Dierks Bentley and Billy Bush, with figures like John Elway, Brett Hull, Keith Tkachuk, Chris Pronger, and Al MacInnis serving as coaches.

Participants echoed sentiments of deep respect for Chase and the tight-knit hockey community. "You can tell how much love and respect there is for Kelly Chase, because just look at the people that are coming," said current Blues coach Jim Montgomery. Paul Stastny added, "Any time we can help him out, guys will fly in from all over... especially since he’s in this fight right now." Chase himself expressed feeling overwhelmed and blessed by the outpouring of support, emphasizing the unique bond shared within the locker room.

The event not only provided moral support but also continued the vital mission of fundraising for cancer research, building on the $600,000 raised the previous year for the Siteman Cancer Center and The V Foundation.

FAQs

What is the Puck Cancer charity game?

It's an annual alumni hockey game organized by the St. Louis Blues alumni community primarily to support former player Kelly Chase and raise funds for cancer research.

Who is Kelly Chase?

Kelly Chase is a former NHL forward who played mostly for the St. Louis Blues. He was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in 2023 and is currently battling it for the second time.

Which organizations benefited from the event?

Proceeds from the game benefit the Siteman Cancer Center and The V Foundation for Cancer Research.

Key Takeaways

Community Matters:: The event highlights the incredible power of community and friendship, especially during challenging times.

Support Cancer Research:: Initiatives like Puck Cancer play a crucial role in funding research to fight diseases like leukemia.

Hockey's Brotherhood:: The NHL fraternity demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting its members, past and present.

Discussion

The dedication shown by the NHL alumni is truly inspiring. What are your thoughts on the hockey community's support for Kelly Chase?

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Sources & References

Source 2: Referenced reporting from 101 ESPN regarding Chris Pronger's participation.

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