Ron Duguay's Daughter Shares Heartbreaking Photo Amid Cancer Battle

Shay Thomas, daughter of former New York Rangers star Ron Duguay, has shared a poignant image of herself kneeling by her father’s hospital bedside as he continues his fight against Stage 4 colon cancer. The cancer has spread to his liver.

In an Instagram post, Thomas conveyed the family's plea for support, writing, “I believe in the power of prayer, and right now, we need all the prayers we can get. And I know so many love him so much. Please keep our dad in your prayers.”

Duguay's diagnosis was publicly announced in February, prompting the family to establish a GoFundMe page. In July, the 69-year-old former hockey player experienced a frightening collapse at home, which led to hospitalization. He sustained facial injuries and lost several teeth during the incident.

Thomas explained that the collapse was due to dehydration, exacerbated by Duguay feeling unwell and having difficulty eating. The pressure from the cancer in his liver, combined with the effects of surgery and chemotherapy, caused internal bleeding. "The ulcer still needs further evaluation, but the bleeding and liver pressure are the major concerns right now,” she stated.

Duguay's battle with cancer began over a year ago, and he has since undergone surgery to remove his appendix and gallbladder. He played 12 seasons in the NHL, including eight with the Rangers, who drafted him 13th overall in 1977. He helped the team reach the Stanley Cup Final in 1979 and was selected for the All-Star game in 1982, where he scored 40 goals. He concluded his career in 1989 with 274 goals and 346 assists in 864 games, also playing for the Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings.