"Making an NHL roster is a major accomplishment for anyone, but it is more special as an 18-year-old. What makes it even more momentous is being congratulated by your opponents. Matthew Schaefer was named to the NY Islanders opening night roster, and upon hearing the news, he heard from Chicago Blackhawks Captain Nick Foligno."
""You know, Nick Foligno, I became close with him," Schaefer said. "He lost his mom to cancer at a young age. He spoke to me, and I was talking to him about stuff like that. We have the same agent, so, yeah, he's been awesome. He's a character and he's a great guy too.""
""I know my mom and she would hate the limelight," said Foligno in 2021 upon the foundation's $50,000 donation to the Canadian Cancer Society. "But I think she would be very happy that her kids are carrying on her legacy and shining the light on her name and her story.""
Matthew Schaefer earned a spot on the New York Islanders opening night roster at 18. Chicago Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno reached out to congratulate Schaefer after hearing the news. Both players lost their mothers to cancer, with Foligno's loss occurring in 2009 and Schaefer's mother passing in February 2024. Schaefer described becoming close to Foligno, noting shared experiences and the same agent. Foligno and his brother Marcus operate the Janis Foligno Foundation to support charities and cancer research. Schaefer has been open about his loss and spends time supporting young people facing similar trauma.
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