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WHL Portland Winterhawks

Winterhawks to Support Sunset High School's "Cram the Stands" Fundraising Event

January 29, 2025 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Portland Winterhawks News Release


Portland, Ore. - The Portland Winterhawks are set to host its annual Hawks Fight Cancer game on Saturday, February 1 at 6:00 p.m. against the Victoria Royals.

In collaboration with Hawks Fight Cancer night, the Winterhawks have once again teamed up with Sunset High School in support of its annual "Cram the Stands" fundraiser. "Cram the Stands" is a fundraising event put on by the students at Sunset High School in Hillsboro to support pediatric cancer research. The Winterhawks were proud to donate $5,000 to last year's initiative and are excited to help raise money for this year's cause. The "Cram the Stands" initiative hits close to home as eight Winterhawks on this year's team are currently enrolled at Sunset High.

Through partnerships, t-shirt sales, and donations, Sunset High raises money each year in honor of selected "ambassadors" from OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital, with two high school basketball games highlighting the fundraiser. This year, the Winterhawks are proud to add Hawks Fight Cancer Night at the VMC as a third event to support the cause.

Sunset High is proud to feature not one, but two incredible ambassadors who are currently fighting their battle with Cancer. Learn about each ambassador below and purchase a "Cram the Stands" t-shirt at the Winterhawks game this Saturday to directly support our ambassadors.

Marco: Marco Arzoke is a 9-year-old boy who has been diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a type of bone cancer. The situation began when Marco's mother noticed a lump on the side of his ribs and became concerned. She scheduled an appointment with his pediatrician, who then ordered an X-ray. Following the results, further testing was conducted, including a CT scan and a biopsy. It was through these tests that Marco was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma. Since his diagnosis, Marco has been undergoing treatment, which has been a difficult journey. The hardest part for Marco has been not being able to do his favorite things or eat his favorite foods. Marco's favorite color is blue, and he loves eating sushi. His favorite movie is Home Alone, and his favorite TV show is Friends. Marco also enjoys Spider-Man, football, and basketball. He has a pet cat named Cosmos, who loves to sleep on his arm! Marco also enjoys playing video games in his free time.

Varun: Varun is a remarkable teenager whose resilience inspires everyone around him. In 2021, after experiencing persistent leg pain while playing squash-his favorite sport-he was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare bone cancer. Despite undergoing extensive treatments, including chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, he faced a relapse in 2023, requiring additional rounds of treatment. Throughout these challenges, Varun has remained positive and focused on his passions. A physics enthusiast, he loves working with cool formulas and engaging in hands-on labs. He's an aviation buff who enjoys learning about planes, collecting models, and participating in the Civil Air Patrol. He also spends time playing guitar, gaming with friends, and hanging out with Blaze, his 2.5-year-old Labrador gifted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Varun's determination and strength have earned him the nickname "Bionic Boy," reflecting his titanium hip replacement. While treatments have impacted his mobility, his optimism never wavers. He draws strength from his family, community, and the encouragement of friends who've supported him every step of the way.

To learn more about Sunset High School's Cram the Stands initiative, visit cramthestands.org.

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