The Hockey Resource - Thank You to NON-PROFIT hockeyfightsms.org

HOW IT ALL STARTED

When Candice Arnold, executive director of Hockey Fight MS, found out she was diagnosed with MS, she decided to use her passion to build a tournament that would help thousands of others in her position.

The inspiration to form this organization came as a direct response to my diagnosis.  I experienced my first symptoms of MS in August 2005.  After undergoing several diagnostic tests such as blood work, MRI, and a spinal tap, my neurologist confirmed I had multiple sclerosis.  This diagnosis completely blindsided me.  I didn’t know anything about multiple sclerosis, so I wasn’t exactly sure what this meant at first, but it didn't sound good. I spent days worrying about what life would be like from that moment on.  I was 25 years old and had my whole life ahead of me.   Would I be able to continue playing sports and participate in the other activities I enjoyed?

Hockey has always been my passion.  I first started playing when I was ten years old.  I played for my high school boys’ team before moving on to play competitively on a girls’ travel team and in a local men’s league.  By the time I had gone off to college, I was competing at the NCAA Division III level and loving every minute of it.  Aside from playing, I was also a private skating instructor and coach.  

 While this diagnosis was a surprise, rather than accepting defeat, I started brainstorming ways to make the best of the situation.  Like the saying goes, “When life hands you lemons, make lemonade.”  I decided the only thing I could do was raise awareness and help find a cure.  So, within one week of being diagnosed, I started planning the first Hockey Fights MS tournament in Bethlehem, PA.

It is my personal mission to use the skills I have to help as many people as possible and in as many ways as possible, whether it be through research, rehabilitation, or simply raising awareness.  Over the years, Hockey Fights MS has expanded into hosting 9 tournaments in 6 states throughout the New England and Mid-Atlantic regions.  None of this would be possible if it weren't for the unwavering support of my family, friends, and volunteers.  I am forever grateful for the support I have and the opportunities that lie ahead.