A lot of people know me as a runner, which is true, but I consider myself a hockey player and coach first.  From playing on the backyard rink and street hockey in the neighborhood, to coaching at St Joe’s High School and playing on the same team with my brothers, it was the sport I enjoyed most growing up.  But that is not why I am participating in this event.  I am participating because cancer has impacted my family greatly.  Both of my grandfathers died due to cancer, one of whom I never had the chance to meet. I also lost my father and nephew Patrick, SJCI class of 12, (in picture with me at bald for bucks event) to cancer and to have the opportunity to do something I enjoy and raise money for some wonderful causes at the same time  is something I just can’t let pass by.

This summer, more than 2,500 pairs of skates will hit the ice to play in the 2019 11 Day Power Play Community Shift to help in the fight against cancer! The 11-day game will be played in continuous shifts at Harborcenter in Buffalo, NY. This important event supports The 11 Day Power Play, raising critically-needed funds for cancer research and wellness programs at Roswell Park, Camp Good Days and Make-A-Wish WNY. While it is physically challenging to play in a marathon hockey game, it's a walk in the park compared to what most endure in their battle against cancer. Cancer is a disease that touches everyone, and The 11 Day Power Play wants to make an impact in our community. In the past two years, The 11 Day Power Play has raised nearly $2.5 million supporting cancer causes in Western New York.

Donations are graciously accepted online or by check. Please write checks out to 'The 11 Day Power Play' and send to PO Box 4, Buffalo, NY 14223. If you are interested in a sponsorship, contact Sara Schumacher today.

To learn more about the 11 Day Power Play organization, visit www.11daypowerplay.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.