Sen. Kerry, Congressional Hockey Caucus to support inaugural Hockey Fights Cancer Day on the Hill

NEW YORK – Life-long hockey player Senator John Kerry (D-MA) will join members of the Congressional Hockey Caucus and Canadian Ambassador to the United States Gary Doer in support of Hockey Fights Cancer awareness month by designating Thursday, October 13, as Hockey Fights Cancer Day on the Hill. This inaugural awareness day in the nation's capital will involve Members of Congress and other political dignitaries pledging public support for the hockey community's effort to fight cancer.

Senator Kerry will be joined by Congressional Hockey Caucus members in wearing the 2011 commemorative Hockey Fights Cancer tie. Participating Members of Congress include Rep. Larry Bucshon (R-IN), Rep. Brian Higgins (D-NY), Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Rep. Patrick Meehan (R-PA), Rep. Mike Quigley (D-IL) and Rep. Lee Terry (R-NE). The lavender tie is custom woven, 100% silk with a hockey player logo throughout. The tie, manufactured by Vineyard Vines, also features a custom-woven Hockey Fights Cancer label.  NHL coaches, broadcasters and team personnel also will wear the commemorative tie during games in October.

Ambassador Doer, former premier of Manitoba and Canada's 23rd representative to the United States, will proudly promote the Hockey Fights Cancer initiative throughout the day at the Embassy of Canada in Washington, DC.  Rep. Quigley, founder and co-chair of the Congressional Hockey Caucus and avid Chicago Blackhawks fan, is scheduled to deliver a one-minute speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in recognition of Hockey Fights Cancer awareness month and the inaugural Hockey Fights Cancer Day on the Hill. Text and video of the congressman's speech will be available at hockeyfightscancer.com.
   
"Every one of us has been touched by cancer, and having seen loved ones battle this disease we know how important it is that we keep up the fight," Senator Kerry said. "I'm proud to be part of an initiative that brings the entire hockey community together to support research, children's hospitals and local organizations working to find a cure and save lives."

"Whether it is a family member, friend or neighbor, most of us know someone fighting cancer, a disease that affects thousands of people each day," Rep. Quigley said.  "Hockey Fights Cancer is an extraordinary opportunity to support the organizations that directly improve the lives of cancer patients and their loved ones through cutting edge research, therapy and vital support services.  I am proud to join this fight and encourage other hockey fans out there to do the same."

"Through Hockey Fights Cancer, the NHL family continues to build upon its long-standing tradition of addressing important social issues to demonstrate that our biggest assist happens off the ice," said Kenneth Martin, Jr., NHL Vice President of Community Affairs. "We are honored to receive the support of Senator Kerry, Ambassador Doer, Congressman Quigley and members of the Congressional Hockey Caucus as they join the hockey family in support of cancer awareness."
   
October marks Hockey Fights Cancer awareness month, a joint initiative founded in December 1998 by the NHL® and the National Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA) to raise money and awareness for hockey's most important fight.  It is supported by NHL Member Clubs, NHL Alumni, the NHL Officials' Association, Professional Hockey Trainers and Equipment Managers, corporate marketing partners, broadcast partners and fans throughout North America.

To date, more than $12 million has been raised to support national and local cancer research institutions, children's hospitals, player charities and local cancer organizations.

The commemorative tie and other Hockey Fights Cancer apparel will be available at shop.nhl.com, select team stores and the NHL Powered by Reebok store in New York City.

For still images of Hockey Fights Cancer Day on the Hill, media can go to www.gettyimages.com.