Checkers And Potvin Family Fight For Ellie
October 8, 2009 - ECHL (ECHL)
Charlotte Checkers News Release
CHARLOTTE, NC-Charlotte Checkers COO Tera Black announced today that the team has once again joined forces with the Potvin family and will host "Fight for Ellie" on Sunday, Nov. 8th.
Ellie Shoal Potvin is a seven-year-old girl who, last July, was diagnosed with Stage 4 Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare childhood cancer. This fast-growing, highly malignant tumor accounts for over half of the soft tissue sarcomas in children and carries a low survival rate.
Last season, the Checkers hosted "Lift Up Ellie Night", raising $9,600 for Ellie's treatment and her family's expenses. Ellie and her family were met on the ice by Checkers players, Black and team owner Michael Kahn prior to the game. A video tribute to her heroic battle was played and she was named first star of the game.
After a 10-month battle, the cancer went into remission, however, the Potvins were recently delivered the unfortunate news that it has returned. As a result, they are once again fighting for Ellie's life and have no control over the number of days they will be blessed with her cheerful spirit.
"Last season we had the pleasure of welcoming Ellie and the Potvin clan into the Checkers family and committed to them that we were in this for the long term," remarked Black. "Now, as the Potvin's face the next stage of their journey we have resumed our commitment and will be doing everything that we can to raise funds and spirits. Personally, I cannot express how moved I am at the strength of Ellie, Grace, Amy and Tim. We are proud to be a part of their lives, and will do all that we can to help."
To help with the ongoing financial burden facing the Potvin family during Ellie's struggle, the Checkers have set up a fundraising ticket initiative for the game on Nov. 8. Fundraiser tickets can be purchased at $15 with $6 going directly back to the family. More information can be found at http://www.gocheckers.com/ellie or by contacting Danielle Adkins at 704-444-1876 or dadkins@gocheckers.com.
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