This year, we felt called to do something special. As we read through the applications for our 2026 beneficiaries, we were deeply moved by the strength, resilience, and love reflected in the stories of local families and their loved ones. After speaking with each family and listening to their journeys, it became clear just how impossible it would be to choose only one person to honor. Every story deserved to be lifted up and supported.

For that reason, our 2026 event will proudly recognize three beneficiaries. We are truly honored to stand beside each of these individuals and their families at the 2026 Randy Carlson Hockey Tournament, and we look forward to supporting them in the year ahead.

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HERE ARE THE RECIPIENTS:

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Daniel E Cartwright Sr - Stage Four Lung Cancer

Daniel was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer one year ago. Since that time, cancer has metastasized in other areas of his body. He has undergone two separate rounds of chemotherapy and is currently receiving radiation treatment for cancer affecting his shoulder at Hahne in DuBois.

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Ryan Lasher - Stage Four Colorectal Cancer

The weekend before Thanksgiving, Ryan got up in the middle of the night to use the restroom and passed out after taking just two steps from his bed. He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors initially suspected he had appendicitis. However, after scans and lab work, it was determined that he had stage IV colon cancer that had metastasized to his liver.

As of January 2026, he is undergoing his second round of chemotherapy at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh.

 

Rebecca Witherite - Stage Four Kidney Cancer

In October 2024, Rebecca was diagnosed with stage IV kidney cancer after doctors discovered a large tumor on her left kidney. She underwent surgery to remove the kidney and began immunotherapy but had to stop treatment due to liver complications.

In December 2025, after experiencing severe hip pain and a broken femur, doctors discovered the cancer had returned and spread to her bones. She had a full hip replacement and is now undergoing radiation and receiving monthly injections to strengthen her bones. After radiation, she will begin an oral chemotherapy treatment.