In 2022, doctors gave Troy Kocur just six months to live after a devastating cancer diagnosis. Yet, against the odds, Kocur continues to cheer on his beloved Edmonton Oilers, finding strength and hope in their journey.
Kocur, a lifelong hockey fan, paces anxiously in his basement, cursing at the television as the Oilers struggle in the dying minutes of Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals. The Oilers’ rollercoaster season mirrors Kocur’s own battle: a rough start, followed by a strong comeback, and an intense fight to the finish.
Diagnosed with cancer in 2019, Kocur initially went into remission. However, the disease returned aggressively, spreading to his neck and brain. In December 2022, given only six months to live, Kocur defied the prognosis with the unwavering support of his wife, Jill. “Screw that,” he said, refusing to give up.
This year, the Oilers’ fight in the championship has given Kocur renewed hope. “Their championship is another clean scan for me, another treatment I get through,” he explained. Hockey has always been a source of solace for Kocur, a passion ignited when he first laced up skates at age two.
Kocur fondly recalls the Oilers’ glory days in the 1980s, watching games with his father. His love for hockey was paralleled by meeting his wife during the 2006 Stanley Cup Final. Despite the Oilers’ heartbreaking loss, Jill quickly understood the depth of Kocur’s passion for the game.
Through the highs and lows of cancer treatment, Jill has been Kocur’s rock. “He makes me stay positive, even when I don’t want to,” she said, noting that her husband’s resilience inspires her daily. For Kocur, it’s never a solo fight; it’s always “we’re fighting cancer.”
As Game 7 drew to a close, Kocur’s dream of an overtime victory faded, bringing back memories of 2006. Despite the loss, Kocur remains hopeful, consoled by his family’s promise of “next year.” Every day, he cherishes his time with Jill and his opportunity to support his team.
“Every day I wake up is a good day,” Kocur said, surrounded by symbols of his two great loves: his wedding photo and his Oilers jersey. “Every day I wake up with Jill is a good day.”
