The Saint John Sea Dogs are coming to terms with another cancer diagnosis in their hockey community.
Defenceman Oliver Felixson, 18, has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a form of cancer that affects the lymphatic system.
Team officials made the announcement Thursday.
"When you're 18 you think you're strong and you're invincible,” said head coach Danny Flynn. “I think the seriousness of the matter is sinking in with him. But I think, all things considered, he's handling it remarkably well."
In a statement, Felixson said the news came as “a complete shock.”
“I know that I am only at the beginning of this journey, but I am confident we have the right plans in place for my treatment," Felixson said.
Hodgkin’s lymphoma is the same cancer that temporarily sidelined Pittsburgh Penguins star Mario Lemieux in the 1990s. Lemieux received treatment and later returned to the NHL.
With treatment, the prognosis is good.
"Frontline therapy consists of chemotherapy and sometimes a mix of chemotherapy and radiation. The chemotherapy is often multiple drugs given at the same time," said Dr. Elizabeth Zed of the Horizon Health Network.
The Saint John Sea Dogs are becoming increasingly familiar with cancer. Oliver Felxison is the second member of the organization going toe-to-toe with the disease.
Equipment manager Dave Kelly is battling a rare form of thyroid cancer. He's been speaking with Felixson.
"The main thing was to tell him that he's not alone,” said Kelly. “We're a family. We love him. There's going to be some long days, some tough days. But don't ever think you're along because there's a whole army of people beside you."
As the hockey season continues, the Sea Dogs army will be looking for some big wins both on and off the ice.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Mike Cameron.
