Skate For a Cure in Michael's memory

By Laureen McMahon

Hundreds of people will lace up their skates and take to the ice at General Motors Place Jan. 20 for the Skate For a Cure. The skate-a-thon is an annual event supported by the Michael Cuccione Foundation and BC Children's Hospital Foundation to raise funds to eradicate childhood cancer.

Special to The B.C. Catholic Terry and Mary Keenan with Archbishop Michael Miller at the celebration of Serra’s 50th.

Michael Cuccione was a teenage Vancouver singer and budding actor who had a bright career before him. Although he successfully fought two major bouts with cancer, his life ended at 16 after complications from treatment.

The Cuccione family established a foundation in their son's name to support cancer research throughout North America, including at Children's Hospital. Each year the two foundations continue the battle to save children stricken with cancer.

Individuals of any age who raise a minimum of $150 will earn the right to skate at GM Place, and the first 325 people to raise $250 or more are eligible to have their photo taken with a player from the Vancouver Canucks.

Skaters will also receive T-shirts and wristbands, complimentary food and beverage, access to the Canadian Tire Family Fun Zone, and a chance to win a signed Canucks jersey.

Those who raise $25 for the cause will be admitted to GM Place to enjoy the Family Fun Zone and watch the skating.

Information on registering for Skate For a Cure and suggestions for fund-raising are available at www.skateforacure.com.