This weekend, if fans look closely, they may notice something different about the Monsters uniforms. Take a look at the helmet and you will see a “Team Kashi” sticker. Let us explain…

In March 2007, kindergartener Anthony Kashi was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. He was treated through alternative measures, and for the past five years the tumor has remained Stage 1.

During that time, Anthony – now a sixth grader at St. Charles Borromeo School in Parma – has been involved in his school and sports, including hockey, where he has been a member of the Parma Youth Hockey association.

This March, Anthony’s condition worsened. In a week’s time, he went from playing on the ice to being sidelined in a wheelchair. Anthony was then diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, Glioblastoma Multiforme, Stage 4.

Anthony is no longer physically able to attend school or participate in sports, but still dreams of getting back on the ice, as well as playing baseball and soccer again.

This Saturday, as part of Youth Hockey Night at the Monsters game, the team will be joined on the ice for pregame introductions by Anthony’s team. Each Monsters player will also have a “Team Kashi” decal on his helmet for the game.

For fans wishing to join the Monsters in Anthony’s fight against cancer, donations for the Kashi family are being accepted at any local Fire Fighters Credit Union (checks payable to Fund for Anthony Kashi).