The youth hockey player, who plays for the Niagara Falls Flyers, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer, in his right leg a year ago. Luey underwent chemotherapy, and part of his leg was amputated, but with help from doctors and the support of his community, he made it back onto the ice with a new prosthetic. In May, doctors declared him 100% cancer-free.
Hearing about young Alex's story, Washington Capitals' winger Alexander Ovechkin surprised the boy with a touching video message.
On Sunday, Rogers Hometown Hockey host Ron MacLean asked Luey who his favorite NHL player was. "Alex Ovechkin," the boy quickly responded.
The program then went to a shot of Ovi, as he is called by fans, who recorded a special message for the boy: "Hi Alex, it's your buddy Ovi. I hear you're cancer free. You're coming to the game in Toronto in November. Can't wait to meet you. So I'll see you soon."
WATCH: After watching Alex Luey's heroic story, we had a little surprise for him courtesy of his favourite player, @Ovi8. @Capitals pic.twitter.com/tGw49lyrvn
— Hometown Hockey (@hometownhockey_) October 9, 2017
Overwhelmed with emotion, Luey broke down in tears. The Capitals will face off with the Toronto Maple Leafs on November 26, where the young player is expected to meet his hero.
Great job @ovi8!!! One of the games finest role models 👍
— Ange Perry (@angeeeee11) October 9, 2017
Great job to the great, @ovi8
— Michael Brown (@MikeEricBrown) October 9, 2017
You continue to motivate and inspire young Hockey fans across the country/world. #RoleModel #NHL @NHLNetwork
Ovechkin is known as one of the most prolific hockey players in the world. He's been a mainstay of the NHL's Washington Capitals since 2005, and before that played for Dynamo Moscow. A long-time leader in goal scoring, he's received numerous awards and trophies, hitting 500 NHL career goals during the 2015-2016 season. In 2017 he was named one of the NHL's 100 Greatest Players of all time. During international games, such as the Olympics, he continues to play for Russia.
In addition to his hockey career, Ovechkin is known for his work with fans, collecting money for worthwhile causes and granting fans' requests.
The player's already off to a great start for the 2017-2018 season, scoring 8 goals in 4 games played.
