Watch some hockey and help out a good cause for a Gibsons resident.
A hockey challenge will be held on Saturday, March 21, at the Gibsons and Area Community Centre.
This event is being held in honor of Marylou Lymer, a two-time survivor of breast cancer, who is now battling cancer for a third time. Nicknamed "Nanna Lou" by her grandchildren, Lymer has been an active resident of Gibsons for more than 30 years. Like other breast cancer survivors, she is an inspiration to those recently diagnosed, in treatment or in recovery. The hockey challenge event is designed to honour her courage and to assist in helping others win their battle with breast cancer.
The goal is to raise $12,000 and promote community awareness.
"There is no other single activity that truly binds Marylou's family and friends," said Brent Lymer, one of Marylou's sons, who is helping to organize the event. "Participating hockey players are committing to raise a minimum of $300 in sponsor pledges. Individuals are also raising money by skating laps prior to the hockey game."
All proceeds will be donated to the Sunshine Coast Relay for Life, a member of the Canadian Cancer Society.
The winning team will be awarded the "Nanna Lou Stick," a pick hockey stick recently autographed by Wayne Gretzky, during his Fantasy Camp held in Phoenix, where Marylou was in attendance. Moving forward, this one-of-a-kind hockey stick will serve as the event's annual trophy.
Lap skaters will be raising money from 2 to 3:30 p.m. The charity hockey game will take place from 3:45 to 5:15 p.m. and the awards and reception dance will take place from 7 to midnight at the Gibsons Legion, where a $5 donation will be accepted at the door.
Donations can be made online at the event's website at http://pinkribbon.nannalou.com/donate. Business's wishing to become a sponsor can contact event organizers directly at [email protected] for sponsorship information.
