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For the second time this season, Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah (the U) partnered with the Utah Hockey Club to host Hockey Fights Cancer on January 18 at the Delta Center. This event expanded on the success of the first Hockey Fights Cancer Night, further uniting the community in a shared mission of hope, remembrance, and advocacy.
The Hockey Fights Cancer initiative, organized by the National Hockey League (NHL) and the National Hockey League Players Association, has raised more than $32 million since its launch in 1998 to support individuals and families affected by cancer. All 32 NHL teams participate by raising awareness and uniting their communities to support those impacted by cancer. Events like this continue to be vital in advancing groundbreaking cancer research, treatment, and support services.
Throughout the evening, patients and their families were honored with heartfelt tributes and unforgettable experiences. Survivors were recognized on the ice, given special access to players, and embraced by the Utah hockey community.
“Tonight's experience helped me to remember the importance of community in one's cancer journey and life at large,” says Morgan Marietti, the founding head coach for the Women's Hockey Club at the U. “Growing up as a hockey player in Utah, I never imagined that the skills I learned on the ice would translate to skills I needed during cancer treatment. Additionally, the hockey community is family no matter the fight.”
Morgan and her mother, Diane Marietti, were among the honorees. Morgan, diagnosed with synovial carcinoma—a rare type of soft tissue cancer that typically affects the joints—at age 32, underwent treatment with the unwavering support of her mother, who had breast cancer. Now cancer-free, Morgan is dedicated to cancer advocacy through her work with the American Cancer Society.
“The Utah Hockey Club treated us to a fantastic night of hockey and fun. It was an honor to share our story and be recognized by Huntsman Cancer Institute,” says Diane.
Brock O’Neil, MD, an avid hockey fan and urologic surgeon-scientist at Huntsman Cancer Institute, as well as an associate professor of urology at the U reflects on the significance of the event. “It was humbling to be part of such a large event celebrating and remembering those who are impacted by cancer in our region. It reminded me of the incredible burden this disease is and the important role so many of us play in treating and supporting those we care so much about.”
Douglas Sborov, MD, MS, director of Huntsman Cancer Institute’s Hematological Malignancies and Hematology Center and Multiple Myeloma program, a physician leader for hematology in the Clinical Trials Office, and an associate professor at the U, also joined the night’s activities. On NashCast, a show featured on Utah HC+, he discussed the evolving partnership between Huntsman Cancer Institute and Utah Hockey Club. “It's a celebration of patients and their journeys and a memory of those that we've lost. It’s an opportunity for us to really build community. What a neat partnership it is.”
This Hockey Fights Cancer Night followed a highly successful first event on November 29 where 13-year-old Porter Kellum, diagnosed with a rare sinus tumor, opened the game with a puck drop, marking his special connection to the team. Other honorees in attendance included Erin Hurst, who has since passed from stage 4 rhabdomyosarcoma, and Adam Whitt, a professional golfer now in remission from leukemia. Erin received a personalized jersey and was celebrated for her courage, and Adam was treated to a Zamboni ride. “Seeing, hearing, and feeling the emotion of everyone at the arena who has been affected by cancer was incredible,” Adam says.
Sachin Apte, MD, MS, MBA, chief clinical officer and physician-in-chief at Huntsman Cancer Institute, emphasized the impact of the first Hockey Fights Cancer Night, saying, “Events like this shine a spotlight on cancer and inspire hope. The funds raised will directly support our physicians and researchers as they work tirelessly to advance cancer treatments and improve lives.”
“The first Hockey Fights Cancer Night in Utah was a truly moving and powerful experience that those in attendance will not forget,” says Chris Armstrong, president of hockey operations for Utah Hockey Club.