Quigley Supports NHL's Hockey Fights Cancer Day

"Mister Speaker, I rise in celebration of National Hockey League's Hockey Fights Cancer Day on the Hill.

Anyone who has played the great sport of hockey or who has watched a game has probably seen a fight or two on the ice. It's no secret that hockey players are a tough group overall.

But off the ice there are bigger fights being waged each and every day by people even tougher than your average hockey player. Even players like former Chicago Blackhawks winger Reid Simpson.

Those living with and fighting against cancer are tougher than the toughest odds and incredibly brave in spite of daunting treatment and an uncertain future.

With nearly 12 million patients in America today, most of us know someone fighting cancer, be it a family member, friend or neighbor.

The NHL's Hockey Fights Cancer initiative is an extraordinary opportunity for members of the hockey family to stand up for our loved ones and to support the organizations that provide the cutting edge research, therapy and vital support services that make their lives better.

This is one fight I'm proud to be a part of and I encourage other hockey fans out there to join me as Hockey Fights Cancer."