Ron Duguay, Sarah Palin's Boyfriend, Battles Stage 4 Cancer

New York Rangers legend Ron Duguay has been battling Stage 4 colon cancer for over a year, a fight that has recently intensified as the cancer has spread to his liver. Duguay, who has been romantically linked with former Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin since 2022, is undergoing intensive treatment. His daughter, Shay Thomas, recently shared a heartfelt plea on social media for prayers and support for her father.

"I wasn't planning on posting anything. but I believe in the power of prayer, and right now, we need all the prayers we can get," Thomas wrote on Sunday alongside a photo of her kneeling beside her father's hospital bed. "And I know so many love him so much. Please keep our dad in your prayers."

The family first announced Duguay's diagnosis in February and established a GoFundMe page to help cover the costs of his treatment. Thomas explained on the fundraising page that Duguay has been unable to work consistently due to his illness.

"Because of his cancer, he hasn't been able to work the way he normally would," she wrote. "Earlier in his treatment journey, the care he received in Florida nearly cost him his life. That led us to bring him to Orange County, where my sister and I live, so he could receive treatment here."

In July, Duguay was hospitalized after being found unconscious at home. The fall resulted in severe facial injuries, and subsequent medical tests revealed underlying complications related to his cancer, including internal bleeding and an ulcer. Thomas stated at the time that the pressure from the cancer in his liver, exacerbated by surgery, chemotherapy, and a hepatic pump, had caused severe internal bleeding.

Despite these serious health challenges, his daughter noted that Duguay remains resilient. "Through it all, our dad remains strong, positive, and trusting God every step of the way," Thomas said. "We will continue to keep everyone updated. Please keep him covered in prayer."

Palin has been a consistent presence throughout Duguay's treatment, often seen by his side. The two have never publicly confirmed their relationship status, but have been seen together at various events, including an NBA game in 2022. Earlier this year, Duguay and his daughter spoke with the Daily Mail about his relationship with Palin, noting they are "very close" but that their ability to see each other has been limited due to his health and Palin's own caregiving responsibilities for her son, Trig.

Duguay, 69, had a distinguished 12-season NHL career from 1977 to 1989, playing for the New York Rangers, Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings. He accumulated 536 points in over 860 games and was a fan favorite, particularly with the Rangers, where he recorded a career-high 40 goals in the 1981-82 season. After retiring from playing, Duguay transitioned to broadcasting, working as an analyst for MSG Network's coverage of the Rangers for 12 years before leaving in 2018. He has undergone chemotherapy and has had his gallbladder and appendix removed as part of his ongoing battle.