Bigger Than Hockey: How Two Best Friends, a Purple Puck, and a Community United to Help Local Cancer Patient

Some nights are about the scoreboard.
Some nights are about rivalries.
And then there are nights that remind us what truly matters.

Purple Puck Hockey Night is one of those nights.

Last winter, during the Hollidaysburg vs. State College hockey game, the community came together for something far greater than the game itself. Through the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program, $3,350 was raised to support six-year-old Hadley Reed and her family as they faced the unimaginable. It was a powerful reminder that when students, schools, businesses, and community organizations unite, hope can rise even in the darkest moments.

Because this was never just about hockey.
This was — and always will be — #BiggerThanHockey.

Hadley’s Fight: A Childhood Changed in an Instant

In December 2024, Hadley’s family heard words no parent is ever prepared for:

“Hadley has leukemia. You need to get to Children’s now.”

Just weeks before, Hadley was a healthy, active little girl. Suddenly, her world — and her family’s — shifted overnight. Hospital bags were packed in a rush. Christmas plans disappeared. Her parents said goodbye to their other children, not knowing how long they would be gone.

What followed were days in the PICU, chemotherapy treatments, blood and platelet transfusions, sleepless nights filled with beeping monitors, and moments of pure heartbreak — including hearing a six-year-old worry about losing her hair and being laughed at by others.

Yet through it all, Hadley showed strength far beyond her years.

She wanted to play.
She smiled when she could.
She fought — every single day.

One year later, the journey continues. Maintenance treatments, frequent hospital visits, chemo schedules, spinal taps, and the constant fear that never truly leaves. Her parents carry both overwhelming gratitude and deep grief — thankful she is still here, while mourning the childhood cancer has taken pieces of.

Hadley is a fighter.
She is strong.
And she is deeply loved.

Everleigh: When a Best Friend Knows Exactly What to Do

One of the most powerful parts of Hadley’s story isn’t just her fight — it’s her friendship.

Hadley and Everleigh met in kindergarten. They had only known each other a few months when Hadley was diagnosed, but they were inseparable almost instantly — the kind of friendship that feels like it was meant to be.

When Everleigh learned that her best friend had cancer, she didn’t hesitate.

She knew she had to help.

So she turned to the people she knew could make a difference — the “purple shirt people.” Everleigh asked her mom if she could reach out to Sideline Cancer to help Hadley.

At such a young age, Everleigh already understood something powerful:
community matters — and Sideline Cancer helps when families need it most.

Those who know Cathy and Jordan Griffith, founders of the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program, know the purple shirts well. They symbolize connection, compassion, and action. They represent a mission that brings students, sports, and communities together to support families facing cancer — right when help matters most.

When Awareness Turns Into Action

The moment Everleigh’s mom reached out, Sideline Cancer sprang into action.

By sharing Hadley’s story and spreading awareness through its network of schools, students, and supporters, Sideline Cancer helped ignite a powerful ripple effect. What started with one young girl wanting to help her best friend quickly grew into a community-wide response.

Local organizations, businesses, schools, and individual community members stepped forward — donating, fundraising, and offering support in countless ways. Because Sideline Cancer amplified Hadley’s story, others were inspired to act, ensuring the Reed family felt surrounded by care, compassion, and tangible support during their hardest days.

This is the heart of the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program — not just raising funds, but connecting people, mobilizing communities, and reminding families they are never alone.

A Proven Mission With Real Impact

The Sideline Cancer movement is built on more than just good intentions — it is built on measurable, life-changing impact.

Through the Greg & Cathy Griffith Family Foundation, more than $300,000 was donated to pancreatic cancer research from 2011 through 2020, honoring Greg’s legacy and commitment to finding a cure.

In 2021, that mission expanded with the creation of the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program, designed to help families facing the financial hardships that come with a cancer diagnosis. Since then, students, schools, and communities have rallied together through Sideline Cancer events, merchandise, and donations to provide direct support when it matters most.

From 2021 through 2025, the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program has provided $250,000 to 70 cancer patients across 25 schools and universities in Central Pennsylvania and beyond — families just like the Reeds, who needed help at the exact moment life changed forever.

Purple Puck Hockey Night: The Impact You Make Possible

Thanks to the incredible support from Warrior Sports Physical Therapy, the seniors of Hollidaysburg Area School District, and so many generous community partners and individuals, Purple Puck Hockey Night raised $3,350 for Hadley and her family.

That support helped ease the financial burden that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis — covering everyday expenses that don’t stop when life is turned upside down.

This is exactly why the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program exists — to step in during the moments families need it most and to rally entire communities around them.

Looking Ahead to 2026: Join Us in Making a Difference

On February 7, 2026, Purple Puck Hockey Night returns — and this year, all proceeds will directly support the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program.

These funds will help cover the administrative and operational costs of running the program — the behind-the-scenes work that makes everything possible. From coordinating families in crisis to working with schools, students, and sponsors, these resources allow Sideline Cancer to move quickly, spread awareness, and deliver help exactly when it’s needed most.

By supporting Purple Puck 2026, you are not just funding one night — you are sustaining a program that continues to lift families like Hadley’s all year long.

We are now seeking sponsors and donors who believe in the power of awareness, community, and action. Your support ensures that when the next Everleigh reaches out — when the next family hears devastating news — Sideline Cancer is ready to respond and mobilize help immediately.

Together, we can:

• Support families facing financial hardship due to cancer
• Empower students to lead with compassion
• Connect schools, businesses, and community organizations for good
• Prove that sports can be a force for impact far beyond the scoreboard

Believe Always. Together We Can.

Hadley’s story is one of courage.
Everleigh’s story is one of compassion.
Purple Puck Hockey Night is a story of community.

And the next chapter starts with you.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, making a donation, or learning how you can support the 2026 Purple Puck Hockey Night, please contact:

Cathy Griffith
[email protected]

Because when we believe always —
together, we can help families like Hadley’s when they need it most.

Bigger Than Basketball: Bishop Carroll & Central Cambria Unite for an Unforgettable Sideline Cancer Rivalry

Less than a mile separates Bishop Carroll and Central Cambria High Schools, but when these two communities come together for Sideline Cancer, the impact reaches far beyond the court.

The 4th Annual Girls Sideline Cancer Game tipped off an unforgettable stretch of basketball where rivalry met purpose. Bishop Carroll entered the matchup undefeated at 6-0, fueled by a strong start to the season and a roster firing on all cylinders. Led by Emily Lucko’s consistent double-double performances and supported by steady guard play and sharp shooting from Ava Pablic, Madison DeLauter, Raigan M., and Sarah Miller, the Lady Huskies showcased how complete this team has become.

Central Cambria came in with a 3-2 record, carrying momentum from a magical 2024-25 season that saw them reach the PIAA Quarterfinals in 3A. With strong guard leadership from Alaina Long, lights-out shooting from Katie George, and a tough interior presence from Gianna Grimaldi, the Lady Red Devils proved once again why this rivalry is as competitive as it is passionate.

In front of a loud, electric crowd at Bishop Carroll, the girls delivered a hard-fought battle worthy of the Sideline Cancer stage. Bishop Carroll emerged with a 47-43 victory, reclaiming momentum in the I Can Cup series. Emily Lucko led all scorers with 19 points, while Ava Pablic added 15, as the home crowd celebrated not just a win—but a night dedicated to something bigger than basketball.

The following evening, the spotlight shifted to the boys for the 5th Annual Sideline Cancer Game, as Central Cambria hosted Bishop Carroll in another chapter of this intense crosstown rivalry. Once again, the gym was packed, the energy was high, and the mission was clear. This game honored Central Cambria Class of 2021 graduate Sara Miller, who is bravely battling cancer while also navigating the challenges of insurance coverage. The donation reveal at the end of the third quarter underscored why Sideline Cancer exists—to rally communities around those who need it most.

Central Cambria entered the contest at 3-2, led by standout guard B. Swope, a familiar name in Sideline Cancer games who has delivered big moments year after year. Bishop Carroll countered with a team riding a two-game winning streak, anchored by Jace Casses, who had already made a name for himself as one of the area’s most dynamic scorers.

What followed was a performance for the history books.

Trailing by 13 points in the first half, Bishop Carroll stormed back behind an unbelievable effort from Jace Casses, who poured in a Sideline Cancer record 47 points—even while facing double teams for much of the night. His scoring outburst propelled Bishop Carroll to a 74-65 victory, snapping a two-game losing streak against their rivals and giving BC a 3-2 lead in the I Can Cup series.

Jace’s 47 points broke the previous Sideline Cancer scoring record of 36, set last season by Somerset’s Eve Housley against Penn Cambria. In a twist that feels almost too perfect for a Sideline Cancer story, Eve and Jace are boyfriend and girlfriend—adding yet another layer of connection to a night filled with special moments.

While the wins, records, and rivalries made headlines, the true victory belonged to the communities of Bishop Carroll and Central Cambria. Two nights. Four teams. Packed gyms. And one shared purpose—to support those battling cancer and remind them they are not alone.

That is the heart of Sideline Cancer.

If you are a school, coach, or community member interested in hosting a Sideline Cancer event and making a real impact through the power of sports, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Jordan at [email protected] to learn how you can get involved.

Believe Always

More Than a Game: Sideline Cancer Opens Basketball Season with Altoona vs. State College

The start of a new basketball season always brings excitement, but for Sideline Cancer, it also brings purpose, hope, and community—and this year’s first Sideline Cancer basketball game of the season delivered all of that and more.

The season tipped off in a big way as State College High School hosted the Altoona Lady Lions, marking the first Sideline Cancer basketball event of the year. From the moment the doors opened, it was clear this night was about more than just basketball. With purple filling the gym and Sideline Cancer graphics proudly displayed, the energy in the building reflected the heart of what these events represent—students, athletes, families, and communities coming together to support those battling cancer.

Coming into the matchup, both teams had high expectations. State College entered the night at 1–1, with both games decided by a single possession, relying on quick guard play and transition offense. Altoona arrived with a 1–2 record, highlighted by an impressive season-opening win over Hollidaysburg in front of a packed home crowd, followed by tough matchups against Upper Dublin and Spring-Ford. With both programs eyeing Mid-Penn League success, a District VI title, and a potential PIAA playoff run, the stage was set for one of the best games of the Sideline Cancer season.

And the Altoona Lady Lions did not disappoint.

Altoona went on the road and earned a commanding 67–42 victory, securing their second consecutive Sideline Cancer win at State College. The night was a true team effort from start to finish. Raylin Eyer led all scorers with 14 points, knocking down two three-pointers and setting the tone offensively. Senior point guard Zaelin Hkai put on a show, dazzling the crowd with her vision and leadership, finishing the night with 13 points and 8 assists. Kendall Cogan added a strong double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Brionna Hudson, returning from injury, made an immediate impact with 12 points in her first game back. It was, without question, a complete team win.

While the action on the court was electric, the true victory of the night was what happened beyond the scoreboard. Once again, Sideline Cancer demonstrated the powerful role high school athletics can play in making a difference. By combining competitive basketball with a meaningful cause, this event reminded everyone in attendance that sports can be a platform for hope, generosity, and support for families facing cancer.

We are incredibly grateful to both State College and Altoona for their continued participation and commitment to the Sideline Cancer mission. Their willingness to use their platform to help others is what makes these events so special—and why they continue to grow each season.

This game was just the beginning. With many more Sideline Cancer events planned throughout the basketball season, the momentum is already building, and the impact will continue to reach far beyond the gym.

If your school, team, or community is interested in hosting a Sideline Cancer event and being part of something bigger than the game, we would love to connect with you. To learn more or to host an event, please contact Jordan at [email protected].

Together, through sports and community, we continue to Believe Always .

Bellwood-Antis Hosts Record-Breaking 4th Annual Sideline Cancer Homecoming Game

The lights were bright, the stands were packed, and the energy at Bellwood-Antis High School was electric as the Blue Devils hosted Bishop Guilfoyle Academy for their 4th Annual Sideline Cancer Homecoming Game — a night that was truly bigger than football.

What began in 2022 as a single act of community giving has now become one of the most powerful traditions in Bellwood-Antis history. In just four years, the school has donated over $15,000 through Sideline Cancer events, with each year growing in both excitement and impact.

This year’s game was one for the record books — not only on the field, but off it.

A Night of Competition and Compassion

The evening kicked off with Bellwood’s traditional homecoming parade before fans packed the stands for kickoff against rival Bishop Guilfoyle. Both teams came into the matchup with strong seasons and even stronger motivation, ready to battle it out under the Friday night lights.

Bishop Guilfoyle entered with a (5-1) record and a three-game winning streak in Sideline Cancer Games, while Bellwood-Antis — coming off key wins over Tyrone and Central — was determined to defend their home field and their community cause.

The game itself was a thriller. Bellwood’s defense shined, keeping BG’s high-powered offense in check for most of the night, while Blue Devil standout Alex McCartney found the end zone twice to tie the score in the second half. In the final minutes, BG senior Jacob Kissell connected for a late touchdown, securing a 21–14 win and extending Bishop Guilfoyle’s Sideline Cancer streak to four straight victories.

After the game, Kissell and the Marauders celebrated by hoisting the Sideline Cancer trophy — a tradition this senior class began back in 2022. Over the years, BG has now helped donate more than $20,000 to 10 cancer patients, showing that their victories go far beyond the scoreboard.

Bellwood-Antis Sets New Record: $10,000 Donated

While the competition was fierce on the field, the biggest win of the night came from the Bellwood-Antis community. Through incredible teamwork, generosity, and heart, Bellwood raised a record-breaking $10,000 for three local cancer warriors:

• Ethan Zook, Bellwood Elementary Student
• Mark Miner, Bellwood Maintenance Staff Member
• Tina Brubaker, Bellwood Community Member

The Homecoming Court — Lily Gerwert, Alyssa Briggs, Marissa Cacciotti, Lindsay Campbell, Chloe Stoltzfus, and Lily McNeils — led the charge, selling over 1,200 t-shirts, accounting for more than $6,000 of the total donation. Add in basket raffles, community contributions, and Sideline Cancer gear sales, and Bellwood’s Homecoming Game became the 7th school ever to hit the $10,000 mark through the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program — and the first football program to do so!

Together, Bellwood-Antis and Bishop Guilfoyle’s efforts combined for nearly $12,000 raised, making this matchup the third-largest philanthropic total in Sideline Cancer event history.

A Community That Continues to Give

For event coordinator Ali Stinson, this game represents the best of what small-town spirit can achieve:

“Our first Sideline Cancer event was held in 2022 and has grown every year since it began,” she shared. “In total, together we’ve raised $29,781 for people right here in our community battling cancer. I simply can’t put into words how grateful I am to work and live in a district that always rises to help others. Your generosity is inspiring — our kids are beyond blessed to be surrounded by people like you.”

From the basket donors and boosters to the parents, students, and volunteers who made it all happen — every effort mattered. Local businesses like Cosmic Charlie’s Coffee House, Martin Oil, Carmosinos, Sheetz, and Main Street Mercantile stepped up to support the cause, while families worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring everything together.

Bellwood’s Sideline Cancer tradition has become a shining example of what happens when a community unites around a mission of hope, faith, and compassion.

Together We Can Sideline Cancer

Sideline Cancer would like to thank both Bellwood-Antis High School and Bishop Guilfoyle Academy for their continued leadership and heart. What started as a single event has grown into a regional movement that changes lives — one game, one patient, one act of kindness at a time.

Together, We Can Sideline Cancer.

If your school or organization would like to host a Sideline Cancer event, become a sponsor, or make a donation to support patients in your community, please contact Jordan Griffith at [email protected].

Follow @sideline.cancer on Instagram to see highlight videos, photos, and more inspiring moments from the Bellwood-Antis vs. Bishop Guilfoyle game.