Emotional moment as prospect attends Development Camp 4 days after final cancer treatment
PUBLICATION
Dorin Canaday
July 15, 2022 (3:20 PM)
Will Francis, a prospect for the Anaheim Ducks, has had a long journey back to the ice. The 6'5" defenseman was drafted by the Ducks in the sixth round (163rd overall) at the 2019 NHL Entry Draft.
After the draft, he was ready to return for his second season with the Cedar Rapids Rough Riders of the USHL, with future plans to join the University of Minnesota Duluth; however, he suffered a torn meniscus.
In March 2020, several physical symptoms led the prospect to seek further medical treatment and unfortunately, he was diagnosed with leukemia later that month.
After a long road to recovery, the 22-year-old rang the bell at Minneapolis' Fairview Masonic Children's Hospital on Monday to mark his final chemotherapy treatment.
Four days later, Francis attended the Anaheim Ducks' Development Camp and received a special tribute in front of his fellow prospects from the club's head coach, Dallas Eakins.
Watch the emotional moment below:
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