On February 20th, SFU players Ryan Sandrin, Mike Lenko, Arjan Cheema and Arjun Badh paid a visit to Canucks defenseman Eric Gudbranson and the Canadian Blood Services Clinic to raise awareness for the Hockey Gives Blood campaign. The players teamed up with other local teams including the Vancouver Giants to volunteer as blood and stem cell donors, as well as to become spokesmen in the hockey community for this important cause.

Hockey Gives Blood is a non-profit society that has partnered with the Canadian Blood Services in an effort to reduce blood shortages nationwide. The inspiration for this group came from two separate events; the first being the death of Tom Middleton (father of Stu Middleton, cofounder) and the second being the Humboldt Broncos tragedy. Stu’s father was killed on the Trans-Canada Highway while en route to one his Junior games in 2000. Stu’s teammates and the local hockey community helped him through that difficult time just as Canadians witnessed the hockey community rallying together to help those affected by the accident in Humboldt.

In wake of the 2018 tragedy, Hockey Gives Blood set out to build something that is positive, is long-lasting, and is a tool for the hockey community to make a positive impact at every level. The team is comprised of former players who believe Hockey Gives Blood has the potential to be a leader in sport benevolence. As passionate as they are about hockey, they are just as enthusiastic about this incredible movement!

Story sponsored by: Justice Institute of BC