“Everyone is going to be affected by it if they haven’t already,” said Quad City Storm President Brian Rothenberger. “It definitely is worth the time spent reflecting on it.”
People showed up Monday at the Vibrant Arena in Moline to paint the ice. They are given a brush and other materials to put the names of people who are fighting or have fought the disease.
“Its obviously very therapeutic not only for the people who are going through a cancer diagnosis but for their loved ones,” said Trinity Cancer Center Oncology manager Toni Weeks. “To be able to honor them and show their support via this method and get them recognized shows the significance and impact it has on the community.”
“It gives them an opportunity, I think, to take a little time to reflect and really think about those loved ones, and also it’s a cool connection to our game on Friday,” said Rothenberger.
The names will stay on the ice for this Friday’s Storm game against Peoria. Many from the area took part in the moving tribute.
“Kyle had cancer and passed away a few years ago so we made it a point to put his name on the ice because of his connection with hockey,” said Moline resident Bernadette Miller.
“Putting their name on the ice is one way of letting them know that we stand behind them. You want to support them and you want to say, ‘Give it your all. We are behind you,'” Miller added.
“Talking about past loved ones is how I remember and how I cope with them being gone and how I keep their memories alive,” said Geneseo resident Jamie Walters. “Somebody knows somebody who has battled and survived or battled and lost to cancer. This is our way of coming together, as a community, to remember those who battled it.”
Rothenberger also says the upcoming game on Friday will have extra motivation attached to it.
“Having the game with these names, (the fans) will be a little more a part of it. They are already a huge part of it by being in the stands, cheering, and making noise,” said Rothenberger. “Now, their person is out here, and it’s part of the game itself. I think it does add another level.”
