Support Kayla and The Blackwells in Her Fight Against Cancer

As members of U19AA Team Heat/ Team Alberta, we are reaching out on behalf of our dear teammate, Kayla Blackwell, and the Blackwell family (Bill, Yurika, and her younger sister Tasha). Kayla is currently bravely battling cancer, and her family needs our support now more than ever.

Bill Blackwell, Kayla’s father, has been a dedicated coach with the Calgary AA Ringette Association for many years, always giving his time and energy to his players. He treats each of his players like his own daughters, and we’ve seen the incredible strength and love this family has for one another. Tasha, Kayla’s younger sister, is also a member of Team Alberta and has been coached by her father this year. Yurika is the glue that binds us all, an incredible mom and enormous support for her daughters’ aspirations.

On Monday, February 24th, we received devastating news: Kayla had to undergo life-saving brain surgery to remove a tumor from her brain. After a successful surgery, Kayla began her recovery in the ICU at Foothills Medical Center, surrounded by the love and support of her family and teammates.

On Sunday, March 2nd, Kayla was granted a 4-hour day pass to watch her team compete for the Provincial Championship title. This was her first time leaving the hospital since her surgery, and she was there to cheer on her teammates. Despite the challenges they faced leading up to the Championship, the team won the gold medal for their teammate and sister, Kayla. Kayla joined her team on the ice for the medal ceremony, receiving her gold medal and raising the trophy alongside her teammates. It was an emotional moment for all.

On Monday, March 3rd, the Blackwell family and Team Alberta were faced with even more heartbreaking news. Kayla has been diagnosed with an aggressive, cancerous sarcoma in her lower back. This tumor, which had been misdiagnosed several times over the summer and fall, has unfortunately metastasized to other parts of her body. The family is now working with doctors to determine the best course of action to fight this stage 4 cancer with all their might.

Though Kayla remains optimistic, even in the face of such a devastating diagnosis, the Blackwell family needs to focus all their energy on supporting Kayla through this difficult journey. Any funds raised will help provide support for the family, comfort, and accessibility for Kayla during her recovery and treatment at home.

If you are able to donate, any amount will be greatly appreciated. If you can’t donate, please share Kayla’s story and help spread the word to support the Blackwell family as they fight this battle against cancer.

Thank you for your generosity and support.

​-U19 AA Heat/Team Alberta