Lethbridge Hurricanes forward Shane Smith is using his hockey skills to make a difference beyond the rink.
This season, he has pledged to donate $25 for every point he scores to the Canadian CMV Foundation, a cause that is deeply personal to him.
Smith’s niece, Maia, was diagnosed with cytomegalovirus (CMV) at birth, and he hopes his donation will raise both funds and awareness about the virus that many people have never heard of.
Get weekly health news
Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday.
CMV is a common virus that can have severe effects on newborns, yet it remains largely unknown to the public. Smith wants to change that by using his platform as a junior hockey player to spark conversations and support families affected by CMV.
“My niece, my family is always in my thoughts when I’m on the ice, and it just kind of gives you that little initiative for sure, a little extra motivation on the ice,” said Smith.
As the Hurricanes push toward the playoffs, Smith’s contributions on the ice will not only help his team but also make an impact off the ice. With every goal and assist, he is turning his passion for hockey into a force for good, ensuring more families have access to the resources and awareness they need to navigate CMV.
Read the full article here
