Courtesy of the PWHL
On Saturday, December 21, the Toronto Sceptres of the Professional Women’s Hockey League hosted an unforgettable Cancer Awareness Night versus the Montréal Victoire. Through this, the teams were able to bring together fans, players, and an entire community in support of former goaltender, Erica Howe. Diagnosed with breast cancer in August at just 32 years old, her journey has been one characterized by endless courage, strength and resilience. Her diagnosis changed her life, uprooting everything she and her wife had built, and sent them down a challenging path, filled with uncertainty.
Howe is no stranger to a challenge being thrown in her direction. As a former professional goaltender, she was known for her ability to remain calm under pressure and make game-saving saves. Off the ice, she carries that same resilience into her role as a firefighter. Now, she has taken it upon herself to channel that same strength into raising awareness and funding for breast cancer research and support.
Courtesy of the PWHL
From the moment Howe announced her diagnosis publicly, she decided she would not be facing this battle in silence. Instead, she used her platform to raise awareness about breast cancer and provide support for others going through similar experiences. Her determination extended to fundraising, where she set an ambitious goal of raising $27,000– an amount chosen to represent her jersey number she sported during her playing days.
The Toronto Sceptres Cancer Awareness Night itself was a powerful display of unwavering support from thousands. From the moment fans entered the arena, the atmosphere was filled with heart-warming emotions. The night included the tradition of the bra toss, a gesture that has become commonly associated with cancer awareness events. Bras rained down from the stands in a display of support, where each one represented a commitment to the cause. Howe’s fire department crew also played a significant role in the success of the campaign by not only showing up to the game, but actively selling toques to raise additional funds.
The financial results of the evening were nothing short of remarkable. Over $20,000 was raised during the game, with the toques sold by Howe’s fire crew providing an additional $7,000. Additionally, $60,000 worth of bras were collected off the ice following the bra toss and donated to women in shelters across the city of Toronto. These contributions easily shattered the original fundraising goal of $27,000, where every dollar raised will go towards breast cancer research, campaigns and support services for those affected by breast cancer. The true value of the night was so much more than what was measured in dollars, and left a lasting impression of the power of the hockey community coming together to support a shared cause.
Courtesy of Jocks in Jills
Erica Howe made a point to be in attendance, giving a speech after the game and sharing a message filled with gratitude and courage. She said it best herself: “This fight isn’t one I face alone. Every cheer, every donation and every act of kindness fuels me to keep going. Together, we’re making a difference– not just for me, but for everyone impacted by breast cancer.”
She spoke candidly of her cancer journey, sharing her experiences of fear, uncertainty and the endless emotional weight that comes with the life-changing diagnosis. She bravely discussed the hard moments, the doctor’s appointments, treatments and the toll it has taken on both her and her loved ones. But her words never deferred to sadness; they were purely about hope and determination through fragility.
The crowd, filled with individuals wearing pink and charged with emotion, was nothing short of overwhelming in response. There was an awareness that they were more than fans in that moment, more than spectators. They were very clearly a part of something so much bigger.
Courtesy of Jocks In Jills
The evening was not just about hockey, but rather a powerful testament to the strength in numbers. Montréal Victoire players donned pink Erica Howe t-shirts, fans cheered during the bra toss and an entire arena came together in solidarity. From the fire department Howe worked with, to the crowd and players’ overwhelming support, the night exceeded every possible expectation, both emotionally and financially. This wasn’t just another hockey game, it was a community rallying behind one of their own.
Edited by Jenna Mandarano
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