The National Hockey League (NHL) and the NHL Players' Association (NHLPA) have again named the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network a charitable league partner for their Hockey Fights Cancer Awareness Month during October for the upcoming 2012-13 season. In addition, the NHL and NHLPA are making a $12,500 gift to provide funding towards pancreatic cancer research programs.

As part of Hockey Fights Cancer Awareness Month, several NHL teams around the league are supporting our local affiliates by hosting in-game awareness events and donating auction items to raise awareness and funds for our cause all around the country.

"Through Hockey Fights Cancer, the NHL and NHLPA are proud to continue our support of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network," said Kenneth Martin, Jr., NHL Vice President of Community Affairs. "We admire their efforts in creating hope and leading the way to increase the survival rate for people diagnosed with this devastating disease. We are honored to join them in the fight to end pancreatic cancer."

Hockey Fights Cancer is a component of the NHL's "Biggest Assist Happens off the Ice" campaign, the League's long-standing tradition of addressing important social issues in North America and worldwide.

Hockey Fights Cancer is a joint initiative by the NHL and the NHLPA to raise money and awareness for hockey's most important fight. To date, more than $12 million has been raised to support national and local cancer research institutions, children's hospitals, player charities and other cancer organizations.

Thank you, NHL, for supporting the fight against pancreatic cancer! For more information, visit www.nhl.com and click on "Hockey Fights Cancer".