86Cancer moves to Imperial Oil Place for growing fundraiser

With tremendous community support over the years, 86Cancer is hosting its major fundraiser once again on Friday.

The 86Cancer Charity Hockey Game has moved into the big room at the Energy Centre, Imperial Oil Place Arena, for a night that includes hockey of course, but live music, major prizes, and an easy way to give back to help those in the area.

“The event was started about four years ago with our non-for-profit raising money towards cancer charities and cancer patients in the Lakeland,” Kyle McGauley, Director of 86Cancer, told Lakeland Connect. 

“We started with a smaller version of what we’re doing now, and it’s been growing every year.” 

The stands were packed with over 700 people at the Cenovus Energy Arena next door last year, prompting the change into a larger venue.

Over the years, over $20,000 has been raised towards cancer treatment and support at the Bonnyville clinic.

“We’re sending up to five families to an Oilers game with all expenses paid with hotels, meals, and gas. That’s our big initiative this year.” 

Applications are online for the opportunity to create this positive memory.

Event

The name 86Cancer stems from “86” which means to reject or cancel. Registered in 2020, the team also sells merchandise, operates DJ services, and gives back all the funds they receive.

The upcoming event will be giving away several prizes as well.

There is an early bird prize for Edmonton Oilers tickets, a signed Connor Bedard jersey for raffle, a Yeti cooler, and several other giveaways.

The game itself will feature some of the best rec players in the area, including junior hockey alums, and perhaps a couple pros as well.

Local politicians have put pride on the line, seeing Mayor Craig Copeland and Reeve Barry Kalinski going head to head in a shootout.

By visiting the 86Cancer website,

Pre-sale tickets are available across the Lakeland: Cold Lake Brewing and Distilling, Sylvestre’s Source for Sports (Bonnyville), and Sunshine Game & Hobby (St. Paul). You can also purchase tickets at the gate for $10.

“It’s just a good fun atmosphere and it’s for a great cause. We hope to have a lot of people come out to support the event.”