FAIRPORT, N.Y. — Over 170 hockey players hit the ice Sunday at the Rochester Ice Center to raise money for Golisano Children's Hospital.
The Rochester Jr. Amerks held a three-on-three tournament and slap shot challenge to support one of their own who was diagnosed this year with pediatric cancer.
While undergoing treatment 18U player, Kyle O'Donnell came up with the idea of the slap shot challenge, all to support a health, fitness and well-being program for oncology patients and their families as they deal with the stress, pressure and anxiety of treatments.
His mother spoke about the inspiration behind it.
"Kyle really wants it for the fitness value,” Jen O'Donnell said. “But also for your mind. When you are there you're anxious, a little sad and a little angry. It’s a lot of different emotions going on. So it’s a really good stress reliever."
All but $5 of each player registration will benefit Golisano Children's Hospital.