Islanders hosting Hockey Fights Cancer Night Saturday, rookie lost mother to disease
© NHL
Matthew Schaefer is honoring his late mom ahead of Hockey Fights Cancer Night.
Before the New York Islanders host the St. Louis Blues on Saturday, Schaefer posted a touching tribute to his mom, Jennifer, on Instagram, celebrating her birthday.
Coincidentally, the Islanders are hosting their Hockey Fights Cancer Night on Saturday as well.
Schaefer’s mom passed away from cancer in February 2024.
The No. 1 overall draft pick posted a photo of him and his mom with a caption wishing her a happy birthday.
Today is a day that Matthew Schaefer holds close to his heart. 💜
It is the @NYIslanders' #HockeyFightsCancer game, and it is Jennifer Schaefer's birthday.
(📸: IG/matthew.schaefer48) pic.twitter.com/QjlWpttVqB
“Happy birthday Mom, I hope you have the best day,” Schaefer wrote. “I love and I miss you so much. Not a day goes by without you being on my mind. Rest in peace my angel.”
Before the game, Schaefer arrived to UBS Arena wearing a special Hockey Fights Cancer pink jersey, holding a sign that says, “I stand up for mom.”
He also taped his stick purple for warmups before the game.
Gearing up. 💜 pic.twitter.com/zQGD29rzEI
The young star received a strong ovation from the crowd after warmups and as he was announced in the starting lineup.