Oilers playoff 50/50 back, supporting cancer research in Round 1

Hunter, the Edmonton oilers mascot, presents a cheque to a previous 50/50 winner. (Courtesy: Edmonton Oilers)

At the playoffs loom some fans might be thinking of the big prize that was up for grabs last year, not the Stanley Cup, but the 50/50 winnings.

The Oilers announced Wednesday that the Round 1 50/50 draw would support the Kids with Cancer Society, the Ben Stelter Foundation and the Alberta Cancer Foundation.

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During last year’s playoff run, the 50/50 jackpots averaged over $8 million, with a record-setting $21 million jackpot in one instance.

• New record: Oilers 50/50 winner to get nearly $11M

“Let’s show those fighting this devastating disease that they’re not alone, but instead, all of Oil Country is behind them,” said Corey Smith, the board chair for the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation (EOCF), in a news release.

The Kids with Cancer Society provides educational and financial support, counseling, short-term accommodations and invests in pediatric oncology research.

The Ben Stelter Foundation, founded in memory of a young Oilers fan, works to make positive differences in childrens’ lives and supports the future of pediatric cancer research and care.

The Alberta Cancer Foundation provides essential care to patients and works to advance cancer research.

“The 50/50 not only raises an incredible amount, it highlights the impact cancer has on so many people,” said Chelsea Draeger Hughes, the CEO of the Kids with Cancer Society, in a news release.

“We are grateful to the EOCF for their commitment to children fighting cancer and for inspiring the community to make a real difference.”

The first multi-day raffle of Round 1 went live Wednesday and will run until 11 p.m. after Game 4.

The first raffle also included early bird prizes like Oilers playoff tickets, signed merchandise and vehicles.