Free extension for sports fans
Advertisement
Advertisement

NY Islanders’ Mathew Barzal finds inspiration in young cancer survivor amid injury

Mathew Barzal has spent much of his hockey career inspiring young New York Islanders fans. But as he works his way back from another frustrating injury, the rol

Published: Tuesday, 13 October 2026 at 11:30 PM
NY Islanders’ Mathew Barzal finds inspiration in young cancer survivor amid injury
Key Things to Know
  • Mathew Barzal credited young cancer survivor Tommy Ryan with providing inspiration during his recovery from knee problems.
  • Barzal surprised Ryan during an appearance on "Fox & Friends" on Tuesday morning.
  • Ryan has been cancer-free for a year following treatment for a rare form of leukemia.
The Story in 60 Seconds

New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal shared that he has found personal inspiration from young cancer survivor Tommy Ryan as he works to recover from lingering knee issues. On Tuesday morning, Barzal made a surprise appearance on "Fox & Friends" alongside Ryan, whose battle against a rare form of leukemia had recently been profiled in the New York Post.

Barzal, who has yet to play this season due to injury, revealed that he keeps a bracelet given to him by Ryan on his car dashboard to stay positive during difficult rehabilitation days. Ryan has been cancer-free for a year following a grueling hospital stay that included 150 days of inpatient treatment, a medically induced coma, and the surgical removal of his left lung.

Advertisement

Never Miss a Sports Update

Get the latest sports news and top stories from MySportsTab delivered straight to your inbox.

No spam. Just the latest sports news and updates.