Submitted
On Jan. 8, the captain of the AA Atom Lakers Hockey Team, Michael Arthur, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, and since that time, many communities in Central Alberta have rallied together to support him.
On Feb. 23, a special event in support of Mike was held at the Sylvan Lake Multiplex. The Midget AA Lakers took on Sylvan Lake Minor Hockey coaches in a charity hockey game, which raised $10,358.75 in support of Mike’s fight against leukemia.
Any excess money will be paid forward to other families who also have children battling cancer.
“This event exceeded all my expectations. I never thought we would raise more than $10 000,” stated Liz Frismeth, organizer of the event.
Several hundred people attended the event. The event began with a ceremonial puck drop by Dave Arthur, Michael Arthur’s father.
It was an action-packed and engaging game, where the fans cheered loudly for both teams in support of Mike. Steven Arthur, brother of Michael, played goal for the coaches and made many spectacular saves against the Midget AA team.
The final score was 11-3 for the coaches.
Michael’s diagnosis, though tragic, has brought the community of Sylvan Lake together and has demonstrated the kindness and generosity of our community and beyond.
Jonathan Toews of the Chicago Blackhawks made a special donation of a signed jersey, and he even took the time to write a personalized note to Mike.
“It takes a strong boy to go through what you have – keep it up buddy! We will be sending positive thoughts your way in the upcoming months,” wrote Toews.
“I’ve never seen so much support in a community and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat,” expressed Liz Frismeth.
Editor’s note: This article was submitted by a talented group of young writers from École Mother Teresa School, with help from teachers Mrs. Voytechek and Mrs. Cunningham. Its authors – all of whom are Grade 5 students at the school – are Vincent Abalo, Brooklyn Cann, Claire Carnegie, Giovonna Carson, Dante Clements, Breannah Cochran, Corissa Crowther, Zakary Gajardo, Paige Goyan, Owen Green, Ella Gulayets, River Hart, Isabella Herzog, Nathan Keating, Amber Martin, Marissa Milner LeFave, Gage Musseau, Jensen Nielsen, Riya Parmar, Jordan Payne, Cole Preikschas, Madison Ruff, Brandon Slade, Gracie Springinatic, Justin St. Germain and Kai Stephansson.