Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024 | 2 a.m.
Today, the Henderson Silver Knights will host their annual Hockey Fights Cancer Game. However, this season, it hits closer to home.
Defenseman Mason Geertsen revealed in a statement posted on X by the Silver Knights that he was diagnosed with B-cell, non-Hodgkin lymphoma in November 2023.
He underwent successful surgery this summer and is now cancer-free.
“I chose to keep my diagnosis private and was able to persevere. Through the worst of it with the support of my wife, family, teammates, doctors and the Golden Knights’ Organization,” Geertsen said in the statement.
“Now that I’m on the other side of this journey, I feel it’s incredibly important to share my story and encourage everyone to be their own best health advocate.”
Geertsen is in the second season of his two-year contract with the Golden Knights, acquired from the New Jersey Devils via free agency. He’s played seven games this season with the Silver Knights, recording three assists.
After sharing his story, Geertsen received support from the Chicago Wolves (Hurricanes affiliate), the Hershey Bears (Capitals affiliate) and the Vancouver Giants, with whom he played his junior career.
Six Silver Knights players have also grown mustaches throughout November to raise money for Movember, an innovative to raise awareness for prostate cancer.
Players will also wear specialty Hockey Fights Cancer jerseys that will be auctioned off to support the Henderson Silver Knights Foundation.
Geertsen advised fans to get checked and tested regularly for various kinds of cancer.
“It’s so easy to put off scheduling an appointment but trust me when I say prioritizing your own wellness is something that is worth the time and effort. It has been for me,” Geertsen said.
The Golden Knights will host their Hockey Fights Cancer Game on Nov. 30 against the Utah Hockey Club.