It was another score for the NEO Kids Foundation at the NHL vs. Docs charity hockey game in Sudbury.
Local physicians traded in their scrubs for skates and faced off against NHL players in a battle on the ice for NEO Kids on Thursday night.
In a media release issued on Friday afternoon, the foundation said about $50,000 and counting was brought in through the event.
“After launching just last year, NHL vs Docs has raised over $175,000 for NEO Kids,” reads the release.
"What a successful and meaningful night that allowed us to move NEO Kids another step in the right direction,” said Nick Foligno, Honourary Chair of NEO Kids Foundation.
“I would like to thank all involved in making the night a success, especially the people who came out to support NEO Kids and who continue to want to make a difference in our community. I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to my teammates, who came to Sudbury to support a cause that is near and dear to my heart. Our children are the future and the future is bright in Sudbury.”
The sold-out crowd had the chance to watch current and former professional players come together for the family-fun event including local players: Nick Foligno, Marcus Foligno, Derek MacKenzie, Andrew Desjardins, Zack Stortini and Andrew Brunette. This year, a number of players from the Columbus Blue Jackets participated, including: Boone Jenner, Josh Anderson, Scott Harington and Zach Werenski as well as Dalton Prout of the New Jersey Devils. The list of hockey celebrities didn’t stop there. Leading from behind the benches were coaches Mike Foligno and Randy Carlyle.
“Although Dr. Michon’s team won on the ice, the true winners are our NEO Kids and their families who will benefit greatly from the generosity of our community,” said Patricia Mills, President, NEO Kids Foundation. “It was a truly remarkable evening having our local hockey players and physicians come together for NEO Kids. You could sense the pride they have in our community and the excitement of the audience.”
“The game will certainly be something I will remember for a lifetime,” said Dr. Sean Murray, Medical Director of HSN’s NEO Kids and Family and Child Program and Chief of Pediatrics. “Thank you to all of the players and volunteers who made this game one to remember for the participants and the fans. Not only did this game raise a substantial amount of money for NEO Kids, it also brought more awareness about the health care needs in our community.”
