Former NHL enforcer opens up to fans and reveals heartbreaking news

PUBLICATION

Daniel Lucente
November 9, 2024 (2:34 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

Former NHL enforcer Kelly Chase has opened up to fans and revealed that he is once again dealing with leukemia, a form of cancer he had beaten once in the past.

Former NHL tough guy Kelly Chase has some heartbreaking news to share, as he again is fighting leukemia. Chase, who played in St. Louis, Hartford, and Toronto, said his cancer started last December, and after multiple rounds of chemotherapy, seemingly had completed his treatment. On Friday night, though, he announced that leukemia has returned, which is a new chapter in this ongoing battle.

"Yes I have a Round 2 with this punk called Leukemia. With the support of these amazing Doctors [at the] Siteman Center and all my friends prayers and support, we are hoping for a similar outcome as Round 1," wrote chase this week. "I am ready to fight again and have a brother with 100% bone marrow match. I truly am grateful for everyone reaching out. I got this."

In April this year, Chase updated on social media that he was doing his fifth round of chemotherapy; the reaction from the hockey world was astounding. NHL players included Toronto Maple Leafs' Max Domi in their messages of encouragement for Chase as he fought through recovery.

It was for a reason, though: Chase says that his brother is indeed a 100 percent bone marrow match, which does bring some hope that such a transplant could be successful. And Chase has left the best for last: still optimistic, still determined, and ready to take on this latest challenge with the same resolve he approached his playing days in the NHL.

Chase built a 458-game career on a tough-as-nails mentality with 2,017 penalty minutes. Now, that fighting spirit is being taken into his personal fight against leukemia. Currently churning through the ugly journey, he's seen fans and players alike come together, cheering him on with undying support.