Ben Stelter's Legacy: Hockey Fights Cancer Raises Record $8.2 Million
Ben Stelter’s spirit and courage continue to inspire the world nearly three years after he passed away from glioblastoma. This young Edmonton Oilers superfan has sparked a wave of support that is revolutionizing cancer research through the Hockey Fights Cancer initiative.
A Milestone Year in Honor of Ben
While the intensity of the Stanley Cup Final thrills us all, off the ice, a monumental announcement has taken place. During the opening game between the Oilers and Florida Panthers at Rogers Place, the NHL and NHLPA unveiled a groundbreaking fundraising achievement. This season, they rallied $8.2 million, doubling their efforts from the previous year. Their goal? To fund two crucial cancer research projects in Ben Stelter’s name.
Touching Hearts and Transforming Futures
Shane Jacobson, CEO of the V Foundation, explains, “Each dollar donated to the V Foundation through Hockey Fights Cancer goes directly to cancer research grants that are bettering treatment options, finding cures, and saving lives.” Ben’s father, Mike Stelter, expressed profound gratitude, stating, “The significant investment in glioblastoma research means the world to our family and our ongoing fight against cancer.”
The Love That Edmonton and Hockey Shared with Ben
Ben’s courageous battle with cancer endeared him to the Oilers and fans worldwide. Known for leading the Edmonton starters onto the ice as the Scotiabank Skater, Ben became a beacon of strength and hope. His infectious smile captivated the nation, making his journey unforgettable.
Building a Lasting Legacy: The Ben Stelter Foundation
Three years on, the Ben Stelter Foundation continues to flourish, aiming to fund the Ben Stelter Centre for Proton Therapy and Neuroscience. “It’s going to be huge,” Mike Stelter stated. As they work to establish Canada’s first proton therapy center in Edmonton, the foundation strives to elevate cancer treatment and research, creating a brighter tomorrow.
Transformative Partnerships: NHL, NHLPA, and the V Foundation
According to NHL.com, the Holt Bequest to Cancer Control Education, these record-breaking fundraising efforts echo the synergy between the NHL, NHLPA, and the V Foundation. With donations flowing from across North America, together they aim to win the fight against cancer, one groundbreaking discovery at a time. As NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman notes, “We are thrilled with what we accomplished this past season… in our quest to vanquish cancer.”
Ben Stelter’s battle against cancer transcends individual struggle, standing as a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together for a cause. His legacy lives on, not only in the hearts of his hometown of Edmonton but worldwide, energizing continued efforts toward a cancer-free future.
