OUR STORIES
Two journeys. One mission. The story behind Pucks To Beat Cancer.
The Story Behind Pucks to Beat Cancer
Paul Lonergan is a cancer survivor whose journey inspired him to give back and support others facing similar challenges. After hearing Kaleb Dahlgren speak at his son's school, Mentor College, Paul met a student named Nikolai who shared that he had stopped playing hockey after losing his father, Pavel, to brain cancer. Moved by his story — and by his own experience with cancer — Paul felt called to create something meaningful in his honour. What began as one man's recovery and a desire to honour a grieving family has grown into Pucks To Beat Cancer: a community-driven event that raises awareness, supports those affected, and brings people together through the power of hockey.
Discover podcasts, news articles, and interviews featuring Paul, where he shares his journey, promotes cancer awareness, and highlights the mission of Puck Cancer & Diabetes.
Paul's Story
In early 2023, what began as a persistent sore throat became the start of the most difficult journey of Paul's life. For nearly six months, Paul was told his symptoms were likely caused by a virus. But when he began coughing up blood, he was referred to specialists who discovered a cancerous tumour at the base of his tongue. At 65 years old, Paul was diagnosed with E.N.T. (ear, nose, and throat) cancer. His first reaction was denial. "This can't be me." But he quickly realized he had to face the challenge head-on. Paul was referred to Dr. Joel Davies, Head and Neck Surgeon at Mount Sinai Hospital, where he also came under the care of Dr. Tsai, Radiologist, and Dr. Spreafico, Oncologist. Together, they developed an aggressive treatment plan consisting of 35 radiation treatments and chemotherapy. The treatment was grueling. Paul struggled to eat and speak, suffered painful radiation burns, battled constant fatigue, and lost 50 pounds, dropping from 180 pounds to 130 pounds. Throughout it all, he was supported by his family, close friends Neil and Gary, and the exceptional team of doctors. When asked what kept him fighting, Paul's answer is simple: "My son." After completing treatment in March 2024, Paul was told the tumour was gone. However, cancer fragments remained in his bloodstream, and he participated in a clinical trial that successfully eliminated the remaining cancer cells. Since the summer of 2024, Paul has proudly remained cancer-free. His journey inspired him to create Pucks To Beat Cancer. Grateful for the treatments and medical research that saved his life, Paul is committed to raising funds to support cancer research, patient care, and future breakthroughs. His goal is to raise $1 million over the next ten years to help bring us closer to a cure. Today, Paul lives by a simple belief: "Each day is a gift." To anyone facing a cancer diagnosis, he offers this advice:
"Have faith in your doctors, keep a very positive attitude, and take care of yourself. Never lose hope."
PAVEL GREKOV
1975 – 2025
Pavel's Story
Pavel Grekov was a self‑made man known for his strength, humility, and heart. Born in Kazakhstan, he came to Toronto on his own at 24, and built a successful career across major food companies.
Outside of work, he was a respected Brazilian jiu‑jitsu professor who lived by the values he taught: honor, discipline, loyalty, and service. Pavel was a dear friend to many. He was a shining light, an active listener and he always gave the best advice. His wisdom was admired, alongside his knowledge on complex world issues. Somehow, he could always explain it in the simplest way.
In 2022, Pavel was diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma. Even in the face of devastating odds, he met every day with courage, optimism, and a fierce determination to protect his family. He was determined to beat this terrible disease. He believed in hope. His dream was for his oncologist to put him on a stage at a conference, and point to him to give hope to the audience that beating brain cancer was possible. Today we continue that dream to find a cure for brain cancer in honour of Pavel.
His legacy lives on in the community he touched and the love he left behind.
IN HIS OWN MOMENTS
Every puck dropped is a reminder of why we play — not just for the love of the game, but for every family still fighting.
JOIN THE CAUSE
Whether you lace up skates, donate, or simply spread the word — every action moves us closer to a world free from cancer and diabetes.