NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Islanders have pledged a donation of $150,000 to establish a child support center in memory of Matthew Schaefer’s late mother, Jennifer, who tragically passed away from breast cancer in February 2024. This initiative was announced by the team on Monday in collaboration with Northwell Health, marking a significant step towards providing support for families dealing with cancer treatment.
The newly created center will be located at the R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Hospital in New Hyde Park, Long Island, New York. It aims to provide a safe and comforting environment for children to wait while their parents receive medical treatment. The center, which will be named after Jennifer Schaefer, is scheduled to open its doors in October, benefiting from the funding provided by the Islanders Children’s Foundation.
Matthew Schaefer, who is only 18 years old, has emerged as a leading candidate for the NHL's rookie of the year and has become the face of the New York Islanders franchise after being selected first overall in the draft. He has openly shared his experiences and the lasting impact his mother’s battle with cancer has had on both his personal life and hockey career.
During the draft held in June, the Islanders paid tribute to Jennifer by adorning Schaefer’s jersey with a pink breast cancer ribbon, symbolizing their support and recognition of her fight. Schaefer has expressed his deep appreciation for his mother's strength and perseverance through her illness. He stated, “I think about my mom every day — her strength, her hope and the way she carried herself with a smile throughout her fight against cancer.” His heartfelt words emphasize his commitment to honoring her legacy through this charitable endeavor.
Schaefer took to social media to convey that this initiative is dedicated to his mother and all families who face similar difficulties. He committed to investing his time, energy, and focus into this project, reflecting the same resilience and courage his mother exhibited throughout her struggle with cancer. He added, “I’m dedicating my time, energy, and focus to standing beside them, carrying forward the same strength and fight my mom showed every day.”
In a statement, Isles co-owner Jon Ledecky expressed the importance of this initiative by saying, “By honoring Jennifer Schaefer's memory in this way, we are ensuring that no child has to walk through these difficult moments alone, providing them with a place of comfort, play and support when they need it the most.” His remarks highlight the team's commitment to supporting families during challenging times and creating a nurturing environment for children during their parents’ treatment.
The establishment of this center not only serves as a tribute to Jennifer Schaefer but also illustrates the Islanders' dedication to community and humanitarian causes. Through meaningful contributions such as this, the organization demonstrates its commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by cancer. As the center prepares to open in October, it stands as a beacon of hope and support for families navigating the complexities of illness.
