Colorado Avalanche Grant Teen Cancer Survivor's Make-A-Wish

17-year-old Sabrina Cassano gets VIP access to her favorite hockey team after beating Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Sabrina Cassano, a 17-year-old from Louisville, Colorado, had her lifelong dream of meeting the Colorado Avalanche hockey team come true through the Make-A-Wish program. Two years after being diagnosed with stage two Hodgkin's lymphoma, Sabrina was able to watch the Avalanche's morning skate, tour the locker room, and receive a personalized jersey signed by the entire team.

Why it matters

Sabrina's story highlights the power of Make-A-Wish to bring joy and hope to young people facing serious illnesses. Her resilience in battling cancer as a high school student is also an inspiration, showing how sports and community can provide crucial support during difficult times.

The details

After finding a lump in her neck, Sabrina was diagnosed with stage two Hodgkin's lymphoma at age 15. She underwent months of grueling chemotherapy at Children's Hospital Colorado, but remained in school and continued playing sports when possible. Despite the challenges, Sabrina's parents say she showed remarkable strength and resilience throughout her treatment.

  • Two years ago, Sabrina was diagnosed with stage two Hodgkin's lymphoma.
  • On Tuesday, Sabrina attended the Colorado Avalanche's morning skate at Ball Arena.

The players

Sabrina Cassano

A 17-year-old from Louisville, Colorado who is a lifelong Colorado Avalanche fan and youth hockey player. She was diagnosed with stage two Hodgkin's lymphoma two years ago and has since beaten the disease.

John Cassano

Sabrina's father, who expressed gratitude for the support his family received from Children's Hospital Colorado, Make-A-Wish, and the Colorado Avalanche during Sabrina's cancer treatment.

Liz Cassano

Sabrina's mother, who said watching her daughter navigate her cancer diagnosis was difficult but also showed her resilience and strength.

Cale Makar

A star player for the Colorado Avalanche, who Sabrina was excited to see up close during the team's morning skate.

Nathan MacKinnon

Another star player for the Colorado Avalanche, who Sabrina pointed out during the morning skate.

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What they’re saying

“This is honestly so incredible.”

— Sabrina Cassano (CBS News Colorado)

“It's so nice to see her so excited and so happy after all that she went through.”

— John Cassano, Sabrina's father (CBS News Colorado)

“Sabrina's gone through so much. She faced her mortality at age 15. So today, the [Avs are] taking the time to talk to Sabrina, and for us to be a part of this, it's just, there's not even words. It's so much fun.”

— Liz Cassano, Sabrina's mother (CBS News Colorado)

The takeaway

Sabrina's story is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the life-changing impact of organizations like Make-A-Wish. Her experience shows how sports and supportive networks can provide crucial comfort and joy to young people facing serious health challenges.