October 8, 2018 was a day that changed Cooper Petrone's life. The McQuaid senior was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Since then, he's spent time receiving treatment in Buffalo, but chose to spend the few days had off in his favorite place with his team.

"It's fun to be back on the ice, I miss it, it's good to be back with the boys. I love seeing them play, it makes my day," said Petrone.

McQuaid is a family, but so is the hockey world. Numerous pros have reached out to Cooper. Last week he took in a Sabres game as a guest of Jack Eichel.

"He's a really nice guy, it was good to see him and watch the Sabres game then meet him after the game too," said Petrone.

Now halfway done with his treatment protocol, Cooper can't help but keep a positive outlook, knowing he has the support of his team, as well as the entire hockey community.

"I go back Christmas Day to start my fourth round then I should be done in March," said Petrone. "I mean it's kind of rough in the hospital but I'll get through it. Everything is going well, going according to plan."