We have all been affected by this deadly disease in some way which leaves us with an empty feeling. I have seen my friends and even my own family go through some of the toughest days/months/years with loved ones battling this. It is never easy and we always end up asking, why us? Why them? Why now? But, in the end, when we all band together we manage to get through it in our own ways. That is why, this year I will be joining the 11 Day Power Play Community Shift to help not only my own family, but all those who are affected by this disease.  

I will be playing for my late Grandma & Grandpa Augustyniak who lost their courageous battle with cancer and showed me that every day is a blessing and a new adventure. Also, I will be dedicating this 4-hour shift (Ingram Micro) to my late Uncle Rick, who recently passed away after a short stint with cancer. He was a man’s, man who loved his family endlessly and was always willing to help his friends and family no matter the situation. Even on his vacation back to Buffalo, he took time out to help me complete repairs to my brand-new house and I will never be able to thank you enough, but will always remember when I turn on that porch light that he will be there with us. He was a great man, and is missed dearly.

I will also be taking on another 4 hour shift to continue to show my support for all those who are battling this disease. I know that I am the lucky one to be able to play hockey, and have fun with co-workers and friends, while many people of our community tirelessly battle each day just to make it 1 more day. All my fundraising can help save a life and that is what I am supporting here in the end. 

My goal initially was only $500 but with the support of family and friends,I have already met this goal. Thank you to everyone who has already donated. I am now going to try to raise another $500 to continue to do my part and exceed what I have already raised. I am just a mere $400 short and am looking for all the help I can get to meet/exceed my goal. Your small donation can impact a family or research to help take this disease out which will last a life time. I ask anyone who can donate any amount to do so please. We all have either been affected, or seen someone affected by this disease and all the money raised will be going to a great cause. I appreciate your donation and support!

Finally, my shifts will be Wednesday July 11th starting at 6pm and going till 11pm for Ingram Micro and Friday July 13th from 6am - 11am. There will be live bands/DJ's, drinks/food and merchandise at the event. Even though these are my shifts, the event will be going on for the full 11 days at the Harbor Center. Please come out to support this great cause if you can. 

Thank you for your support!

This summer, more than 1,700 pairs of skates will hit the ice to play in the 2018 11 Day Power Play Community Shift to help in the fight against cancer! The 11-day game will be played in continuous, four-hour shifts at HarborCenter in Buffalo, New York. Each shift will feature two new teams. The purpose of this important event is to raise critically-needed funds for important local cancer causes, including: cutting-edge cancer research and wellness programs at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center; supporting programs that improve quality of life for children, adults and families affected by cancer through Camp Good Days; and, granting wishes and amazing experiences to kids with life-threatening illnesses, including cancer, by Make-A-Wish Western New York. Although it may be physically challenging for our players to play four continuous hours of hockey, it will be a walk in the park compared to what some people have to endure in their battle against cancer. Cancer is a disease that touches everyone, and The 11 Day Power Play wants to make a difference, a big difference. You can help make a big difference by supporting our players' efforts in The 11 Day Power Play Community Shift.

As part of our fundraising efforts, we also offer various corporate sponsorships, providing value greatly in excess of the financial contribution. Please contact Sara Schumacher at sara@11daypowerplay.com or 716-830-3805 for more information. Team sponsorships start at $1,100 and are first come, first serve. 

Proceeds of the 11 Day Power Play Community Shift will benefit our local families while supporting cancer research and wellness programs at Roswell Park, Make-A-Wish WNY and Camp Good Days.

Donations are graciously accepted either online or by check. Please write checks out to 'The 11 Day Power Play' and send to PO Box 4 Buffalo NY 14223.

Find out more about this event, or the 2017 World’s Longest Hockey Game, at www.11daypowerplay.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.