I’ve been debating whether to post this article as it isn’t necessarily hockey-related, but the Toledo Blade’s Mark Monroe spoke with a hockey scout who’s advocating for both physical and mental health issues, and my blog has a place for that kind of story:
While Walleye head scout Ed Burkholder dreams of one day bringing a Kelly Cup to Toledo, his daily passion is aimed at erasing stigmas surrounding serious issues affecting all of society.
Burkholder, whose connection with Toledo professional hockey dates to 2003, hopes to spark an open discussion on two subjects most people find uncomfortable.
Burkholder, a 50-year-old native of Welland, Ont., has launched a podcast to encourage others to speak up about topics such as testicular cancer, depression, and anxiety.
His campaign called “Check Yourself, Express Yourself” is deeply personal.
“It’s OK to talk about these things,” Burkholder said. “Plug into each other. Let’s talk about it.”
Burkholder, who also is a TV broadcaster for the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League, was diagnosed with testicular cancer at the age of 26.
He has been cancer free since 2007, and has become a staunch advocate of cancer awareness.
“Cancer affects us all. Everyone has a story,” Burkholder said. “You need to check yourself. It could save your life. Get to a doctor. It may be uncomfortable for a lot of people, but it could mean life or death.”
Burkholder has created T-shirts and cause bracelets with his slogan. Last month, he developed the idea of producing the podcast as another outlet. The first episode features a compelling story from former NHLer Jim Thomson. It can be heard at podomatic.com/podcasts/checkyourselfexpressyourself.
Good stuff, George.
Always encouraging to read about folks in hockey
speaking up and setting a positive, encouraging example.