PINK IN THE RINK HOLDS EXTRA SIGNIFICANCE FOR SANDELIN
Feb 13, 2025When the Iowa Wild take the ice on Saturday, Feb. 15 against the Grand Rapids Griffins, they will do so in specialty pink jerseys. The one-of-a-kind sweaters will be auctioned off postgame, with proceeds benefiting breast cancer treatment at John Stoddard Cancer Center.
For Ryan Sandelin, participating in Pink in the Rink is a deeply personal experience. His mother, Wendy, was diagnosed with breast cancer while pregnant just months before he was born.
“My mom is a 26-year breast cancer survivor,” said Sandelin. “She was diagnosed with breast cancer in the fall of 1998 and put off treatment for me to be born. I wouldn’t be here without her.”
Sandelin is inspired by his mother’s choice to wait to get chemotherapy and says he is excited to participate in this year’s game.
“It took strength and courage for her to take time to wait for me to be born,” said Sandelin.
Like many people, Sandelin’s connection to breast cancer isn’t limited to just one person. This past summer, his grandmother, Barb, was also diagnosed with breast cancer.
“She got through treatment and is in remission now,” said Sandelin. “She’s tough and she’s a warrior. She’s doing great now and you can’t ask for more than that.”
When the puck drops on Saturday evening, Sandelin’s mother will be one of many fans in attendance pulling for the team in the pink jerseys. Sandelin hopes that the survivors and their loved ones in the stands are inspired by the team’s awareness and fundraising efforts.
“It’s important to know that people are always in your corner and that you’re always supported,” said Sandelin. “Two of the strongest women in my life have gone through it. I’m glad we get to do a Pink in the Rink night to honor not only them, but all the other breast cancer survivors and family members who have been affected.”