Hi again everyone, once again I have been invited to participate in this summer's 11 Day Powerplay. So many people have been impacted by cancer in one way or another, and our family is no different. Over the last decade both my mother and her father (pictured above) have had to battle cancer. My mother, Rae Anne Swan, was diagnosed with breast cancer around 10 years ago. Fortunately for her it was caught very early on and after a tough but manageable year, she was pronounced cancer free! About 4 years ago my grandfather (Raymond Hertel) was diagnosed with late stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Unfortunately he was not so lucky and passed away only a few months after falling ill. Thankfully though, he was able meet and spend some time with our son (named Raymond after him) who was born a few months before he was diagnosed.

    Thank you for taking some time out of your day to read our story. Cancer is a serious issue for a lot of of people around the world. Roswell is trying to change that. Any amount you would be able to contribute to our cause in this fight against cancer will be highly appreciated. Thank You!

This summer, more than 2,500 pairs of skates will hit the ice to play in the 2019 11 Day Power Play Community Shift to help in the fight against cancer! The 11-day game will be played in continuous shifts at Harborcenter in Buffalo, NY. This important event supports The 11 Day Power Play, raising critically-needed funds for cancer research and wellness programs at Roswell Park, Camp Good Days and Make-A-Wish WNY. While it is physically challenging to play in a marathon hockey game, it's a walk in the park compared to what most endure in their battle against cancer. Cancer is a disease that touches everyone, and The 11 Day Power Play wants to make an impact in our community. In the past two years, The 11 Day Power Play has raised nearly $2.5 million supporting cancer causes in Western New York.

Donations are graciously accepted online or by check. Please write checks out to 'The 11 Day Power Play' and send to PO Box 4, Buffalo, NY 14223. If you are interested in a sponsorship, contact Sara Schumacher today.

To learn more about the 11 Day Power Play organization, visit www.11daypowerplay.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.