After a cancer survivor was bullied watching an Edmonton Oilers game in Los Angeles last weekend, fan bases in both cities turned it into an opportunity to raise money for sick children.
Last week, Global News shared the story of Cecily Eklund, a 10-year-old cancer survivor who raised nearly $100,000 for children with cancer.
The Ben Stelter Foundation gifted Cecily a trip to LA to cheer on the Edmonton Oilers in Game 3 of Round 1 of the playoffs.
Mom Kathy Eklund said that while the trip was great overall, “Los Angeles was definitely a hostile environment” during the game.
“There was a fight just two rows in front of Cecily. She was spat on and abused,” Eklund said.
“It wasn’t the best experience, but it’s also very important to remember that a few fans don’t represent the entire fanbase.”
Euler’s Evander Kane, who calls Cecily a dear friend, drew attention to the incident on social media on Tuesday.
“This kind of behavior is vulgar and completely unacceptable.” he wrote on instagram.
“Grow up and be kind, like this smart little girl always says.”
As the controversy gathered momentum on social media feeds, LA Kings fans posted Cecily’s Stollery donation page online, encouraging others to donate.
“Let’s show her what a real Kings fan is,” said Twitter user ZachtheKingsFan.
Eklund said Kings fans had donated more than $7,000 to Cecily’s Stollery page by around 4 p.m. Tuesday.
“Not all Kings fans are toxic, very few of us. That woman does not represent us and we do not claim her,” read a donation note from LAKingsTalk1199 please
“Real Kings fans are rooting for you,” said a supporter who donated $25.
“I’m rooting for you! Love from the Kings fanbase.
Oilers fans certainly helped with the girl’s fundraising efforts, too.
An Oilers fan who donated $100 wrote, “Cecily, I’m sorry to hear what happened to you in Los Angeles.
Mike Altieri, senior vice president of marketing, communications and content for the Kings, said the club investigated the incident after seeing a social media post.
“Unfortunately, the incident was not reported to security,” Altieri said.
“That said, assuming it’s all true, we’re certainly concerned with the action and the incident.”
Altieri said he encourages fans to continue donating to Cecily’s fundraiser.
Cecily and her mom were at Rogers Place to cheer on the Oilers in Game 5 on Tuesday.
“It’s just great to know that[Cecily]is doing well and that so many people are supporting her,” Ecklund said.
The pack drop for Game 5 is Tuesday at 7:50 PM.Coverage begins at 630 CHED at 5:30 p.m. Showdown Show
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