Purple Puck Night — A Celebration of Courage, Friendship, and Community

BY: LEANN STEFAN / No Comments

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Purple Puck Night was more than a hockey game — it was a powerful reminder of what happens when a community rallies around families facing some of life’s hardest moments. From the first puck drop to the final buzzer, the day was filled with purpose, joy, and an overwhelming sense of togetherness.

At the heart of the evening were two remarkable first graders, Hadley Reed and her best friend Everleigh Stefan. When Everleigh learned that Hadley had been diagnosed with leukemia, her instinct was simple and pure — she reached out to the purple shirt people. That small act of friendship sparked a chain reaction of compassion that brought an entire community together in support of families facing cancer.

As Hadley and Everleigh stepped onto the ice for the ceremonial puck drop, joined by fellow patient assistance recipients Christa Stolz and Isaac Tryninewski, the rink erupted in cheers. It was a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of the night — this was a celebration of the recipients, their resilience, and the strength they show every day. Their stories remind us that courage comes in many forms and that no family should walk this journey alone.

Purple Puck Night was filled with meaningful full-circle moments. Christa Stolz, whose connection to the mission spans more than a decade, stood as a living testament to perseverance and faith. Isaac Tryninewski’s presence highlighted the ongoing impact of community support for families navigating cancer. Together, these recipients represented the heart of the evening — honoring journeys of hope while celebrating how far they have come.

On the ice, excitement carried through a thrilling 3–2 win for Penn State Altoona. Off the ice, generosity stole the spotlight. The silent auction was an incredible success thanks to the outpouring of support from local businesses and community members who donated an array of amazing items. One cherished highlight came when Finn Corey won the Sam Lafferty Chicago Blackhawks autographed game gloves — a moment that added to the unforgettable memories of the day.

Throughout the rink, laughter, hugs, and shared stories echoed the true purpose of the event. Purple Puck Night wasn’t just about hockey — it was about celebrating life, honoring resilience, and strengthening the bonds that hold a community together. Events like this demonstrate how compassion, friendship, and collective action can make a real difference for families facing the financial burden of a cancer diagnosis.

This unforgettable night embodied the mission of Sideline Cancer — bringing people together to uplift families in need and proving that when a community believes always, incredible things can happen.

To learn more about the inspiring recipients celebrated on the ice, you can read their stories:

Hadley & Everleigh’s story:
https://griffithfamilyfoundation.org/bigger-than-hockey-how-two-best-friends-a-purple-puck-and-a-community-united-to-help-local-cancer-patient

Christa Stolz’s story:
https://griffithfamilyfoundation.org/hollidaysburg-raises-8300-for-local-cancer-patient

Isaac Tryninewski’s story:
https://griffithfamilyfoundation.org/rivalry-football-game-raises-7400-for-patients-hollidaysburg-wins-sideline-cancer-celebrates-a-decade

Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance impact story:
https://griffithfamilyfoundation.org/1500-raised-through-sideline-cancer-patient-assistance-program

Purple Puck Night was a celebration of courage, generosity, and the power of community — a night that will live on as a reminder that together, we truly can make a difference.