Sarah Palin Cares for Boyfriend Ron Duguay During Cancer Battle

The former Alaska governor was seen feeding and supporting the ex-NHL player as he undergoes treatment.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin was spotted caring for her boyfriend, former New York Rangers player Ron Duguay, as he battles stage 4 cancer. In an Instagram video shared by Duguay's daughter, Palin was seen feeding Duguay in the hospital and posing for a selfie with him. Duguay was diagnosed with the serious illness about a year ago, and his family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover his extensive treatment costs.

Why it matters

Palin and Duguay's relationship has been kept largely private, so this glimpse into their personal life during a difficult health crisis provides a rare window into their partnership. Duguay's cancer battle also highlights the immense emotional and financial toll such illnesses can take on families.

The details

Duguay, 68, was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer that started in his colon about a year ago. His daughters, Shay Thomas and Amber Stavros, have been documenting his treatment journey on social media, including various holistic and traditional approaches he's undertaken. Palin, 62, has been by Duguay's side throughout, as evidenced by the video of her feeding him in the hospital and posing for a selfie together.

  • Duguay was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer about a year ago.
  • Palin and Duguay's relationship became public in 2022.

The players

Sarah Palin

The former governor of Alaska and Duguay's girlfriend.

Ron Duguay

A former New York Rangers hockey player who is currently battling stage 4 cancer.

Shay Thomas

Duguay's daughter, who shared the video of Palin caring for her father on Instagram.

Amber Stavros

Duguay's other daughter, who has also been involved in supporting her father's cancer treatment.

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What they’re saying

“Update on my dad @ronduguay10. One of the hardest things we've learned through this journey is that cancer doesn't fight fair. Just when you think you've found something that's working, just when hope starts to grow again, it tries to show up somewhere else. It forces you to keep pivoting, keep adjusting treatments, and keep changing cocktails and protocols.”

— Shay Thomas, Duguay's daughter (Instagram)

“Cancer wears on you mentally, emotionally, and physically. The highs bring hope, the lows can feel overwhelming. But through all of it, my dad keeps showing up. And more than anything, he keeps leaning on God.”

— Shay Thomas, Duguay's daughter (Instagram)

What’s next

Duguay's family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the costs of his extensive cancer treatment, which has included a variety of traditional and holistic approaches.

The takeaway

Palin and Duguay's relationship has provided a source of comfort and support during his difficult cancer battle, highlighting the importance of having a strong support system when facing a serious health crisis.