NHL Legend Ron Duguay Finds Support in Sarah Palin During Cancer Battle

Duguay's daughter reveals the former Alaska governor has been a 'huge source of support' for the family as the hockey star fights stage IV colon cancer.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Former NHL player Ron Duguay, 68, was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer in December 2024. His family has launched a GoFundMe to help cover his ongoing medical costs, which has sparked some controversy. Duguay's daughter Shay Thomas revealed that former Alaska governor Sarah Palin, 62, has been a 'huge source of support' for Duguay and his family during his cancer battle, even staying with him in the hospital for days at a time.

Why it matters

Duguay's cancer diagnosis and the family's decision to start a GoFundMe page highlights the financial strain that serious illnesses can place on individuals and families, even for those who have had successful careers. The story also showcases the importance of a strong support system during difficult health challenges.

The details

Duguay, who played in the NHL from 1977 to 1989, kept his cancer diagnosis private until this week when his family launched the GoFundMe. His daughter Shay said Palin, who Duguay has been in a relationship with since 2022, has been incredibly supportive, even staying with him in the hospital for five days after a surgery. The GoFundMe has raised over $100,000, but has also faced some criticism from those who assume Duguay has plenty of money from his NHL career.

  • Duguay was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer in December 2024.
  • Duguay's family launched the GoFundMe earlier this week to help cover his medical costs.

The players

Ron Duguay

A former NHL player who was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer in December 2024.

Sarah Palin

The former governor of Alaska who has been in a relationship with Duguay since 2022 and has provided significant support to him and his family during his cancer battle.

Shay Thomas

Duguay's daughter who revealed Palin's involvement and support for her father during his cancer treatment.

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What they’re saying

“She's been involved and incredibly supportive in my dad's entire journey. Their relationship can obviously be challenging because they live long distance. She's in Alaska, he's in Florida. But they have always remained close.”

— Shay Thomas, Duguay's daughter (Us Weekly)

“If we ever need her for something, she would take a red eye flight on short notice. If we have stuff with our kids and couldn't make it — for example, my dad had a surgery where they went into his colon and liver — and she stayed with him in the hospital for five days. She's been a huge source of support. Not only for my dad, but for our entire family.”

— Shay Thomas, Duguay's daughter (Us Weekly)

What’s next

The family plans to continue fundraising through the GoFundMe to help cover Duguay's ongoing medical expenses as he battles stage IV colon cancer.

The takeaway

Duguay's story highlights the importance of having a strong support system during a serious health crisis, even for those who have achieved success in their careers. It also underscores the financial strain that can come with a major illness, even for those who may have been financially secure in the past.