Ron Duguay, who is currently battling stage 4 cancer, is receiving support from his girlfriend Sarah Palin, a former vice presidential candidate. This was made evident in a recent video shared by his daughter, showing Duguay spending quality time with family and friends during his treatment. In the footage, Palin, 62, is seen feeding the 68-year-old former NHL player while he rests in his hospital bed, as well as a photo of them sharing a smile together.
The couple has been in a relationship since 2022. Duguay has been vocal about his health challenges, revealing during a Tuesday night update that his cancer originated in his colon over a year ago, leading to the removal of both his appendix and gallbladder.
To assist with medical costs, Duguay’s daughters initiated a GoFundMe campaign, which, as of Wednesday afternoon, has successfully raised over $53,000, surpassing its initial goal of $50,000.
“I think it’s going to be quite tough to cover all these expenses,” Duguay mentioned. He added that he typically prefers helping others and finds it challenging to ask for assistance now.
His daughters emphasized the need for fundraising due to the toll Duguay’s fight against cancer is taking on both his physical and financial well-being. They also pointed out that he hasn’t been able to work as often as he normally would because of his condition.
As a former player, Duguay was picked 13th in the 1977 NHL Draft and played eight seasons with the Rangers, contributing to the team’s journey to the 1979 Stanley Cup Final. He later spent 12 years as an analyst for MSG until his dismissal in 2018.
His daughters noted that Duguay is now considering treatment options outside of the U.S. due to complications from previous therapies. Duguay mentioned that he is exploring various holistic routes alongside traditional chemotherapy, stating, “I will try all alternatives in addition to Western medicine.” He hopes that his experience will help others in similar situations.
Although Palin and Duguay haven’t widely shared details of their relationship online, she previously expressed her appreciation for their “safe and comfortable” connection. Reflecting on their conversations, she acknowledged Duguay’s insight and perspective, noting his patriotism and common sense.
