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Hockey Fights CancerPaul’s story and how to support Melissa.Read the story
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Hockey Fights Cancer.

This fall, he’s getting national attention for an uplifting story in the National Hockey League’s “NHL Fights Cancer” campaign.

Paul Kearney’s story. A friendship with Melissa Doyle. A cause close to Expert IT Operations.

Donate for MelissaRead Paul’s story
Paul Kearney and Melissa Doyle preparing to film their stories on the NHL campaign set
Behind the campaignPaul and Melissa Doyle on set in Manhattan.

Why this cause matters to Paul

A lifelong Flyers fan and two-time cancer survivor, Paul was invited to NHL Headquarters in Manhattan to film alongside Melissa Doyle. For him, the campaign brings a very personal experience to the hockey community.

Paul Kearney in a hospital bed during his cancer treatment
Paul during his cancer treatment.

“I was lucky to beat cancer twice and we pray for those who are fighting it right now.”

Paul KearneyCEO & Founder, Expert IT Operations
Behind the scenes

If playback is unavailable, open the video directly on YouTube.

Open on YouTube See the Instagram reel

A day at NHL Headquarters

Paul and Melissa shared their experiences with cancer during the commercial shoot. These photos take you behind the scenes of their day on set.

Expert IT Operations also supports cancer research through charity events, golf outings, sponsorships, and donations.

In front of the cameras

Paul seated on the purple-lit filming set with cameras and lighting equipment around him

Paul during the commercial shoot.1 / 2

Stand with Melissa

Paul and Melissa became friends during the NHL shoot. She is still in the midst of her battle with cancer.

“My commercial mate and now friend for life is still in the thick of her battle.”

Paul Kearney

Her GoFundMe helps with treatment and everyday expenses, including hospital bills, transportation, child care, and help at home. Cancer affects families and caregivers, too. A donation, a share, or a word of encouragement can help.

Donate for Melissa

Melissa’s personal GoFundMe is separate from the NHL campaign and the walk’s research fundraising.

Paul’s message for Melissa

A screenshot shared by Paul showing him holding an I Fight For sign with a handwritten message for his new friend Melissa

“My new strong friend Melissa.”1 / 1

Join us on October 24

Come to the walk and fundraiser in support of Melissa. The flyer includes a QR code to join Team “KOA” for the Brooklyn Bridge walk.

Fundraiser party
Whiskey Tavern · 79 Baxter
Party time
12:30–4 p.m.

Everyone is welcome at the party, whether or not you join the walk. Raffles and mimosas are planned, with a cash bar and kitchen available.

The flyer states that walk funds support the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Melissa’s GoFundMe is a separate way to help with her personal expenses.

October 24 walk & fundraiser

October 24 walk and fundraiser flyer for Melissa, with a party at Whiskey Tavern, 79 Baxter, from 12:30 to 4, and separate QR codes for the walk and Melissa’s fundraiser

Select to enlarge the flyer and scan the QR code to join the walk.1 / 1

Help support Melissa

Join us on October 24, share her fundraiser, or make a donation to help with her expenses during treatment. Your help in any way is appreciated.

Learn about the NHL awareness campaign

Melissa’s personal fundraiser

Donate for Melissa

You’ll continue to Melissa’s GoFundMe.

Photos and Paul’s story shared by Expert IT Operations.

More about Paul and Expert IT Operations