Fort McMurray wildfires impact NHL fans

The devastating wildfires in Fort McMurray, Alberta have left many in the region without homes and possessions. Those who were forced to evacuate took only essentials.
Morgan Rankin was among those who lost her house in the tragedy. Still, Rankin and her two brothers, Daniel and Billy Foley, managed to salvage some of their most prized belongings.

Daniel, an Edmonton Oilers fan, packed clothes and drove to safety, but he made sure not to forget his memorabilia.

Billy was unable to pack belongings before leaving Fort McMurray, but his girlfriend managed to put together four San Jose Sharks jerseys she knew were among his most precious things.

Rankin said hockey is "a huge part of her family life." When the family was reunited at Lac La Biche, Alberta, and she saw what her brothers brought with them, they were able to laugh.
"These items, although they may seem frivolous in light of our situation, will always bring my brothers joy," Rankin said. "They serve as a reminder to the good times we had as a family prior to this event."
The Sharks heard of the family's situation and their mascot Sharkie responded.

Kings mascot Bailey is throwing in a Logan Couture game-used stick he happened to have lying around.

The gestures and support from teams and hockey fans online have given the family a respite from their devastation. They are grateful.
"The support we have received from fans and teams has been overwhelming," Rankin said. "The kindness and generosity people contain is just amazing."
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