NHL Cancer Survivor Scores Hat Trick

Brian Boyle, a New Jersey Devils’ Forward, recently scored his first career hat trick, scoring three goals in one game, during Hockey Fights Cancer Night, a game dedicated to raising awareness for people suffering from cancer.  This event is especially close to Boyle’s heart as last year during his 11th season in the National Hockey League, Boyle was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia during a physical at training camp.

Hockey Fights Cancer Night, a collaboration between the NHL and the National Hockey League Players Association, has been a fundraising event for 20 seasons. Boyle’s wife was named the ambassador of Hockey Fights Cancer Night this year.

Boyle has played for five teams over twelve seasons. This may have been his first hat trick but not his first goal. Boyles has scored 109 goals throughout his career. These particular goals propelled his team to a 5-1 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins. His career has led Boyle to other accomplishments as well, including the 2018 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for perseverance and sportsmanship.

Brian Boyle’s journey through cancer has become an inspiration for many people suffering from the same disease. He’s been able to spread awareness for cancer by playing in the NHL for so long and pushing through the disease. This particular Hockey Fights Cancer night was the perfect stage for Boyle to achieve this career first, as the news coverage has led to even more awareness for the disease.

By Jake Bogartz