As in years past, the theme of Tampa Bay Fights Cancer Night is to raise awareness in support of finding a cure for the disease, as well as spread the message that courage, strength and love can build bridges to a better tomorrow. This centerpiece event will host nearly 2,000 individuals affected by the disease or helping to find a cure in Tampa Bay. The annual event brings together a multitude of charitable organizations dedicated to dealing with the dreaded disease.
To date, close to 89,000 cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, families, doctors, nurses and volunteers have participated in Tampa Bay Fights Cancer Night activities. With the goal of bringing the cause to the forefront of the community's awareness, The Yerrid Foundation and the Lightning Foundation have teamed up to provide tickets and thundersticks to all participants from the organizations.
Special guests from the participating organizations will also take part in a pre-game high-five tunnel as Lightning players take the ice for warmups, and enjoy meet-and-greets with Lightning players. Three individuals will also be designated as "Yerrid's Heroes" for the night. The designations of "Yerrid's Heroes" each year go to local champions in the "cancer community". These incredible individuals will be recognized in-game and wear a "Yerrid's Heroes" jersey for the night.
Fans are encouraged to participate by sharing photos on social media using #TampaBayFightsCancer.