One of my greatest honors of being the PA Announcer for the Predators is participating in Hockey Fights Cancer Nights… the stories of these ambassadors inspire us all. I have gotten to know quite a few of these ambassadors and have followed them as they grew, graduated high school, finished college and established their careers, many dedicating their lives to eradicating the disease they beat. I love when they come down to say hi, share a hug and update me on what they are doing.
On February 27th of this year, as a part of Nashville second Hockey Fights Cance Night of the year, I was honored to tell the story of Michelle Alvarez. A smiling, vibrant teen who beat osteosarcoma... was in remission and then was diagnosed with lung cancer… here is a video of that night… In the midst of all the joy of this past week, comes news that brings life into sharp perspective. Michelle lost her three year battle.
My first reaction was unprintable… another young life snuffed out to this disease. It just pisses me off… another family having to deal with the loss and the pain of burying a child because of this disease.
And not only having to deal with the pain… but also the bills… and on top of the medical bills, now... the expense of a funeral.
Here is where we can come together as a hockey family and lift a burden from this family… A gofundme page has been established to help the Alvarez family with the costs of saying goodbye to their precious child. It’s a small bit of support… but if you can see your way clear to kick in a few bucks, you would have my everlasting gratitude.
A direct quote from Michelle has stuck with me since that night, I think it always will. These are words that struck me hard as I read them. It is a quote that helps all of us be thankful for what we have and more importantly, for the challenges we are given in life.
“I never thought I could say this, but I am grateful I have this disease, because it changed me as a person. I am very close to church now. I see things with a whole new perspective and I wouldn’t change that for anything.…
Godspeed sweet Michelle… love and prayers to the entire Alvarez family.