Rangers Legend Ron Duguay’s Battle with Cancer

Ron Duguay, a celebrated figure in Rangers history, has been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, as he shared with Page Six. His family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help manage the costs associated with his treatment.

At 68, Duguay revealed that the cancer originated in his colon. He has been fighting this illness for over a year, undergoing surgeries that removed his appendix and gallbladder.

“I think it’s going to be quite challenging to find funding for all these expenses,” Duguay expressed to Page Six. “Typically, I’m the one helping others.”

He emphasized that cancer can take lives and is incredibly costly.

His daughters commented on the GoFundMe page, noting that contributions would assist with travel, medical treatment, holistic care, and potential new therapies.

“Our father has never been one to ask for help… especially when it comes to finances,” his daughters wrote. The fundraiser has already raised over $31,000. “He always preferred handling things himself, not wanting to burden others. However, as a family, we felt it was essential to set this up because the struggle has taken a significant toll on him physically and financially.”

They added, “Due to his cancer, he hasn’t been able to work as much as he usually does, but he continues to fight fiercely.”

Duguay, who was drafted 13th overall by the Rangers in 1977, played a pivotal role in the team’s journey to the Stanley Cup Final in 1979. He also worked as an analyst for the MSG Network.

His daughters mentioned that they relocated their father to Orange County, California, after an earlier treatment in Florida was nearly fatal for him. “Now we have to travel from Florida to Orange County every two weeks for ongoing treatment,” they said. “Regular travel, along with medical and holistic therapies, has created significant financial challenges.”

They noted the recent increase in Duguay’s cancer markers has prompted them to explore additional treatments outside of the United States, which are expected to be exceedingly costly.

Duguay commented on the resurgence of his illness, stating he plans to pursue alternative therapies along with conventional medicine. “I hope to share what I learn with others,” he said, adding, “I need to recover to be able to help others.”

His daughter Shay shared an emotional video on Instagram, conveying her father’s situation and his resilience. “He’s giving his all. Day in and day out. And through it all, his faith never wavered,” she mentioned, discussing the various treatments he has been undergoing.

Duguay’s career spanned 12 seasons, during which he played for the Rangers, Red Wings, Kings, and Penguins. He notched 274 goals and 346 assists, making his only All-Star appearance during the 1981-82 season.

He also served as a commentator for Rangers games on MSG for 12 years before his departure in 2018.