A Mother’s Fight with Cancer Sparks a Hockey Community Movement

We’re thrilled to share a recent article from New York Weekly that beautifully captures the heart and mission of October Saves. Titled “October Saves: How a Mother’s Battle with Cancer Inspired a Goalie-Led Movement to Combat the Disease”, it dives into the inspiring journey of our co-founder, Lara Hopewell, and how her personal experience with breast cancer sparked a continent-wide movement in the hockey community.

The article highlights how Lara’s sons, then just four and seven, found solace and strength in hockey during her treatment.This led to the creation of the October Saves Goalie Challenge, where goalies of all ages collect pledges for every save made during October, raising funds for cancer research and patient support. What started with 28 goalies from the Ashburn Xtreme has now grown into a national initiative, uniting thousands of goalies across the U.S. and Canada.

The article also describes the unique role of goalies in this movement, transforming their typically solitary position into a powerful symbol of collective strength and leadership. With support from NHL teams like the Washington Capitals, New Jersey Devils, Philadelphia Flyers and Boston Bruins, as well as renowned goalie coach Mitch Korn, October Saves continues to make a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer.

Read the full article to learn more about this unique initiative and how every save helps support the fight against cancer.