Last year I went to watch this group of amazing people put on the 11 Day Power Play to raise money for cancer research.  It sounded like such a difficult task in the paper and on the radio.  Speaking with my friends, we spoke of how hard it must be (as we swilled a beer).  Then I went down there.  Words can't describe what they went thru, nor why they were doing it.  Cancer is such a horrible monster.  It took my best friend.  My sister Terry battled breast cancer and kicked its ass.  Just this spring, we lost another great man in David Downing.  Clearly this disease doesn't respect great people.  We all know someone impacted.

When I was asked to backstop this group (after flashes of endless rubber heading my way), I thought of several excuses.  Most of the players are better than I am (except probably Travers).  I am not going to be able to raise as much money as others.  I am certain to get injured (just ask Cara).  But when it comes down to it, I can endure some pain after a few hours with friends when the cause is this important.

While Terry has stayed on top in her fight, I'm aware of so many others, personal friend and those from work.  But as I take the ice, I will be thinking about my Uncle Bob.  He has been fighting for years - and cancer has taken some serious shots.  To complicate things, he had a stroke.  But he keeps his head up and fights.  He has been through so much, but still remains active.  A great man - no wonder he and my father were best of friends.  I will keep his picture with me, and think of all those impacted during my shifts.  Keep fighting!!     

If you have made it this far to read my post, I ask that you consider donating to my page (or anyone else you know doing this - as long as money makes it to these causes).

This summer, more than 1,700 pairs of skates will hit the ice to play in the 2018 11 Day Power Play Community Shift to help in the fight against cancer! The 11-day game will be played in continuous, four-hour shifts at HarborCenter in Buffalo, New York. Each shift will feature two new teams. The purpose of this important event is to raise critically-needed funds for important local cancer causes, including: cutting-edge cancer research and wellness programs at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center; supporting programs that improve quality of life for children, adults and families affected by cancer through Camp Good Days; and, granting wishes and amazing experiences to kids with life-threatening illnesses, including cancer, by Make-A-Wish Western New York. Although it may be physically challenging for our players to play four continuous hours of hockey, it will be a walk in the park compared to what some people have to endure in their battle against cancer. Cancer is a disease that touches everyone, and The 11 Day Power Play wants to make a difference, a big difference. You can help make a big difference by supporting our players' efforts in The 11 Day Power Play Community Shift.

As part of our fundraising efforts, we also offer various corporate sponsorships, providing value greatly in excess of the financial contribution. Please contact Sara Schumacher at sara@11daypowerplay.com or 716-830-3805 for more information. Team sponsorships start at $1,100 and are first come, first serve. 

Proceeds of the 11 Day Power Play Community Shift will benefit our local families while supporting cancer research and wellness programs at Roswell Park, Make-A-Wish WNY and Camp Good Days.

Donations are graciously accepted either online or by check. Please write checks out to 'The 11 Day Power Play' and send to PO Box 4 Buffalo NY 14223.

Find out more about this event, or the 2017 World’s Longest Hockey Game, at www.11daypowerplay.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.