A new event is about to hit the ice, all in support of oncology care in the region. A dedicated group of volunteers is launching Pucks for a Purpose: 24 Hours of Remembrance and Hope, a 24-hour hockey game created to raise funds for regional oncology support and equipment through the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation (SOTNHF).
The event will bring together hockey players of all ages, families, businesses, and supporters from across the region for 24 consecutive hours on the ice, united by a common goal: improving cancer care close to home for Northern British Columbians.
Inspired by the impact cancer has on individuals and families throughout the North, the organizing committee envisioned an event that combines the region's passion for hockey with a meaningful opportunity to give back. Participants will skate in honour of loved ones, celebrate survivors, remember those lost, and raise funds that will help enhance cancer care for patients throughout Northern BC.
The proceeds from Pucks for a Purpose will support priority oncology equipment, programs, and patient care initiatives through the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation. Funds from the inaugural event will go toward purchasing advanced ultrasound equipment for the new Hepatobiliary (HPB) Clinic, a specialized service focused on liver, pancreas, and bile duct care. This technology will help doctors diagnose and treat patients more effectively and support the work of new specialist surgeons coming to Northern BC. By investing in this equipment, we're helping bring more advanced healthcare closer to home so fewer patients have to travel outside the North for care.
"Cancer has no limits and it has touched so many lives, including mine” says Event Founder, Allan Bristowe. “My wife passed away from the disease almost three years ago. Over the past few years, I have seen this terrible disease impact many children in our community, especially our hockey community, so I felt this event was a great way to spread awareness, honor those that we have lost and play a game so many love.”
"Community-driven events like Pucks for a Purpose demonstrate the incredible generosity and spirit that exists throughout Northern BC. We are grateful to Allan and the organizing committee for turning an idea into an opportunity to make a meaningful difference for patients and families facing cancer" says SOTNHF CEO, Aimee Cassie.
"This equipment will be monumental in helping patients to stay in or near their home communities as they receive state of the art health care” says local surgeon Dr. Mitch Webb.
“When we were asked if we would sponsor this event, we didn't hesitate to jump on board as title sponsor. Cancer has touched so many of us, not only within our organization, but with friends and family within the communities that we live and work in. Raising funds for northern residents to get specialized care right here at home is crucial. Giving back is a huge part of our culture at TC Energy and to be able to support and be a part of such an important cause means a lot to us” says Tanner Moulton, Senior Community Relations Advisor with TC Energy.
The puck is set to drop January 30th at 10:00 am with a Survivor's game in Kin 1.
Registration is open and can be found on the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation’s website. A Facebook page has also been created to keep the community in the loop: www.facebook.com/groups/pucksforapurpose. Additional event details, registration opportunities, sponsorship information, and fundraising activities will all be posted on the website and social channel.
