Former NHL Star Ron Duguay Reveals Stage 4 Cancer Diagnosis
Ron Duguay, a celebrated former New York Rangers player and hockey analyst, has publicly disclosed his battle with Stage 4 cancer. The 68-year-old Sudbury native, who gained additional public attention in recent years for dating former Alaska governor Sarah Palin, is now facing a serious health crisis that has prompted his family to seek financial assistance.
Family Launches GoFundMe Campaign for Treatment Costs
Duguay's daughters have initiated a GoFundMe fundraiser to help cover the substantial expenses associated with his cancer treatment. In their heartfelt appeal, they explained that their father has always been reluctant to ask for help, particularly regarding financial matters. However, the mounting costs of medical care, travel, and alternative therapies have become overwhelming for the family.
"Our dad has never been someone who asks for help... especially when it comes to money," Duguay's daughters wrote on the fundraising page. "He has always tried to handle everything on his own and didn't want to burden anyone else with what he's going through. But after many conversations as a family, we decided to create this fundraiser for him because we've seen firsthand the weight this battle has placed on him, both physically and financially."
Medical Journey and Treatment Challenges
Duguay revealed to Page Six that his cancer originated in the colon and has progressed to Stage 4. He has been battling the disease for approximately one year, during which he has undergone significant medical procedures including the removal of his appendix and gallbladder.
The treatment journey has been particularly challenging. According to his daughter Shay, earlier treatments in Florida nearly proved fatal, prompting the family to relocate Duguay to Orange County, California, where his daughters reside. This move has allowed him to receive more effective care, though it requires him to travel from Florida to California every two weeks for treatment.
The financial burden has escalated dramatically due to:
- Constant cross-country travel for medical appointments
- Specialized medical care and hospital expenses
- Holistic therapies and alternative healing approaches
- Nutritional supplements and supportive treatments
Duguay's Illustrious Hockey Career
Ron Duguay enjoyed a distinguished 12-year NHL career, playing nearly 500 games for the New York Rangers where he became a fan favorite. His professional statistics include:
- 864 total NHL games played
- 274 career goals scored
- 346 career assists recorded
- 620 total career points
- 1979 Stanley Cup final appearance with the Rangers
- 1982 All-Star Game selection
Beyond his tenure with the Rangers, Duguay also played for the Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, and Pittsburgh Penguins. Following his playing career, he transitioned to broadcasting, serving as an analyst for the Rangers on MSG Network.
Current Treatment Approach and Outlook
With recent spikes in his cancer indicators, Duguay is pursuing a comprehensive treatment strategy that combines conventional Western medicine with alternative approaches. He expressed his determination to overcome the disease and potentially help others facing similar challenges.
"I am going to do all the alternative along with the Western medicine," Duguay told Page Six. "What I am learning, I will be able to share with others. I need to get better so I can help others."
The GoFundMe campaign has already demonstrated significant support from the hockey community and beyond. As of Wednesday morning, the fundraiser had surpassed $38,000 toward its $50,000 goal, reflecting the widespread admiration for Duguay and concern for his wellbeing.
Duguay's cancer battle has prevented him from working normally, adding financial strain to the already substantial medical expenses. His family remains hopeful that continued treatment and community support will help him overcome this challenging period in his life.
