The Westerville Warcats Hockey Association, The Hilliard High School Hockey Club and the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation announce:

A Pajama, DVD and Book Drive in honor of Ryan Salmons

Those of you who follow the Columbus Blue Jackets, know the story of Ryan Salmons.   Ryan played hockey for the Hilliard Hockey program, and was diagnosed with pediatric cancer in April of 2008.   During his stay at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, he was introduced to several Blue Jacket players who spend a good deal of time visiting the Pediatric Cancer Unit.   Ryan, through his selflessness and dignity quickly became a favorite of the Blue Jackets and indeed an inspiration for their drive to the NHL playoffs earlier this year.   His perseverance in the face of terminal illness forever left a mark on the franchise and many of its fans.   He passed away on May 1, 2009.

That dignity and perseverance will not be forgotten.

The Westerville Warcats Hockey Association, The Hilliard High School Hockey Club and the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation will be conducting a Pajama, DVD and Book drive to honor Ryan Salmons and to benefit the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Pediatric Cancer Unit.   We invite all Wildcat families to donate new pajamas, new or gently used books or new and age appropriate DVD’s to the cause.   The Ryan Salmons Fund was established in Ryan’s memory to provide support to pediatric cancer families.   The Salmons family is working with the Blue Jackets Foundation to announce an exciting legacy gift to the hospital soon.   Our drive will work very well with that legacy gift.

On December 20, 2009, prior to our game between Westerville and Hilliard, our hockey teams will add a sticker to their helmets, designed by the Columbus Blue Jackets, commemorating the life and spirit of Ryan Salmons.   Ryan’s father, Brad, will be at the game and will be dropping the puck at a ceremonial face off.   He and the Blue Jackets foundation will also be accepting our donation to the Pediatric Cancer unit that evening.   Please join us in celebrating the life of Ryan Salmons, as we fill the pediatric cancer unit (j-5) with pajamas and DVD’s!!   Let’s overwhelm Brad Salmons and the Blue Jackets Foundation with our donation!!   Please go to www.hilliardswhockey.com for donation details.