NHL Grant Aims to Impact Pediatric Cancer Research at Boston Children’s

BOSTON, Mass. — After years of fighting Burkitt’s lymphoma, former Boston mayor and NHL Players’ Association Executive Director, Sean Walsh, announced on Thursday a $600,000 grant directed to Boston Children's Hospital.

This funding comes more than 50 years after Walsh’s childhood battle with a rare form of lymphoma, marking a momentous occasion for the NHL and its commitment to cancer research through the Hockey Fights Cancer initiative.

Walsh recalled the day he met his childhood idol, NHL legend Bobby Orr. The emotional encounter took place when Walsh was only 7 years old, and he was being treated at the hospital. “I remember it was Friday the 13th, crazy enough,” Walsh said. “I was going home that day after a long stint in the hospital and Bobby was always coming to visit the floor. I remember when the elevator door opened, Bobby — he was on crutches — and he was larger than life.”

With the grant, funds will support Dr. Yana Pikman’s research at Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, focusing on pediatric leukemia, an area crucial for advancing treatment options for young patients.

Walsh’s long-term commitment to cancer research has roots in his own experiences as a child. According to the V Foundation, when he was treated in the late 1970s, the survival rate for children with cancer stood at just 58 percent. Today, that rate has improved significantly, with upwards of 85 percent of children surviving cancer thanks to advancements made in research.

“This is a critical time for research and investment,” Walsh emphasized. “The impact of seeing players engage with kids in the hospital, including my experience with Bobby, has shown the importance of these interactions.”

Hockey Fights Cancer, established in 1998, aims to raise funds for research, while engaging younger audiences. To date, the initiative has raised over $36 million, highlighting the ongoing efforts of leagues and players to combat cancer.

This week, alongside NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, Walsh is pivotal in promoting the 4 Nations Face-Off event, a qualifier leading to the 2026 Olympics in Milan. “It’s awesome that this is happening during such a significant week for our sport,” he continued.

While Walsh often speaks to players about his childhood experience, he also acknowledges the uplifting effect visits from teams have on other children facing similar battles today. “The players have such a positive impact on families,” he said.

As the NHL and NHLPA continue to advocate for cancer research, Walsh’s personal story serves as a powerful reminder of the fight ahead.