Former NHL star Ron Duguay, whose public battle with stage IV colon cancer has been supported by former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, was found unconscious at his home and hospitalized on Friday, July 24. His daughter, Shay Thomas, announced the incident on social media, sharing that her father fainted and sustained facial injuries during the fall.
Thomas explained that extensive medical testing revealed severe underlying complications related to his cancer treatment. Doctors identified extreme dehydration, difficulty eating due to illness, varices, portal hypertensive gastropathy, internal bleeding, and an ulcer. The cancer in his liver, combined with the physical toll of surgery, chemotherapy, and a hepatic pump, has caused significant pressure buildup, leading to internal bleeding.
Duguay is currently receiving blood transfusions and is under close medical observation. Despite the ordeal, his daughter stated that he remains in good spirits and is trusting in his recovery. Thomas expressed gratitude for the public's support.
Palin, who has been a frequent presence at Duguay's bedside throughout his illness, has been closely linked with the former hockey player since 2022. While they have not publicly confirmed their relationship status, she has been seen by his side during treatments. Earlier this year, Duguay's family established a GoFundMe to help cover medical expenses, with his daughter defending the decision against assumptions about his financial status.
Duguay had a notable 12-season career in the NHL from 1977 to 1989, playing for teams including the New York Rangers, Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings. After retiring from professional hockey, he worked as a broadcaster for MSG Network's coverage of the Rangers for 12 years.