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Roccos pride needs a helping paw

Lioness laid low with cancer
Roccos pride needs a helping paw

Powell River Kings’ mascot Rocco has been volunteering at junior hockey games and other community events for years.

Now he and his pride are facing personal challenges.

His lioness is fighting stage four cancer and Rocco has recently been laid off from his paid employment.

Kings’ club president Rob Villani is currently going through his own battle with cancer.

“I could not imagine fighting this awful disease and also be worried about finances,” he said.

On Friday, October 25, during the Kings’ game against Trail Smoke Eaters at Hap Parker Arena, the hockey club is holding a fundraiser for Rocco and his pride.

Villani and Company, Warren Behan Home Selling Team and T&R Contracting (Mark Hassett) have guaranteed the 50/50 at $2,000. Priority One Heating & Cooling Ltd. and Wolf Breweries will be holding a tailgate party before the game, with all proceeds going to Rocco and his pride.

“It’s Peak Publishing’s game night and they have generously agreed to have the Rocco fundraiser be part of the evening,” Villani explained. Some Peak paper carriers will go through the stands with buckets for donations to Rocco, his lioness and their cubs.

Everyone who attends Kings games or community events where Rocco is present has seen how he interacts with youngsters. “He loves them and they love him,” Villani said. As the Kings’ biggest fan, Rocco encourages fan enthusiasm with his well-used drum.

Even during the hot weather of summer, Rocco is out at Sea Fair for the parade and beach events. The dedicated mascot also attends SPCA’s Paws for a Cause fundraiser and just last month was at Powell River and District United Way family day campaign kick-off, to mention just a few.

“Rocco has selflessly donated his time to not only the Kings but to Powell River as a whole,” added Villani. “He and his family have helped out others in the past. Now they need help in return. Powell River, let’s show him and his pride how much we appreciate his time and effort.”