RELEASE: Oilers Mega 50/50 to fight cancer in Oil Country

EDMONTON, AB – The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation, Ben Stelter Foundation, Alberta Cancer Foundation and Movember are calling on all of Oil Country to join the fight against cancer through the Oilers Mega 50/50.

The first Mega 50/50 raffle of the 2023-24 season starts November 15 and runs until 11:00 PM on November 28 after the Oilers host the Vegas Golden Knights at Rogers Place for the Hockey Fights Cancer game.

Last season's Mega 50/50 jackpots reached as high as $5.7 million. This raffle will be part of Hockey Fights Cancer in support of the Ben Stelter Foundation, Alberta Cancer Foundation and Movember.

"In support of all families battling cancer across Oil Country, we are incredibly proud to partner with the Ben Stelter Foundation, Alberta Cancer Foundation and Movember through the Oilers Mega 50/50 under the rallying cry of Hockey Fights Cancer," said Corey Smith, EOCF Board Chair. "We are all affected by cancer and now is the time for all of Oil Country to come together through the Oilers Mega 50/50 and Ben's legacy to help save lives and ensure no family has to ever face this devastating disease alone."

The Ben Stelter Foundation was established to continue the legacy of Ben's big heart and generosity, with the goal of helping children fighting glioblastoma and other cancers. The funds raised through the Oilers Mega 50/50 will be invested in the foundation's four strategic pillars: Outcome Based Research, Medical Equipment, Magical Experiences and Venture Philanthropy.

"The Ben Stelter Foundation has made incredible strides forward in the last few months, launching a medical equipment program, and funding research for brain tumours within the University of Alberta," said Mike Stelter, Executive Director of the Ben Stelter Foundation. "We've also been humbled seeing the impact and drive that kids have to raise money to help other kids that are battling cancer. The latest example of this is a school fundraiser that is being organized by a student within Edmonton to have any local school raise money and compete for a chance to have a visit from Connor McDavid and win a signed jersey. We are very grateful to the Edmonton Oilers, Oil Country and the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation for their continued unwavering support. Together, we will battle pediatric cancer."

More information on the school fundraiser can be found at BenStelterFoundation.com.

With ground-breaking medical research, and the continued support of Albertans, the Alberta Cancer Foundation is changing the way cancer is treated – not only at the Cross Cancer Institute in Alberta, but around the world.

"We are beyond grateful to the Oilers Foundation and Oil Country for supporting the incredible work that is taking place at the Cross Cancer Institute," said Wendy Beauchesne, CEO, Alberta Cancer Foundation. "Proceeds from tickets purchased on November 25 and 26 will support the development of two new labs specifically designed to advance CAR-T cell therapy treatments and research. This means more access to groundbreaking cancer treatments for Albertans."

Movember is uniquely placed to help fight the cancer crisis. The organization funds groundbreaking projects in Alberta and beyond.

"Movember and the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation are bringing two legacy organizations (and a ton of stellar moustaches) together to change the face of men’s health," said Todd Minerson, Country Director of Movember Canada. "Oilers fans and all Albertans have our deepest gratitude for their support of our work to fight prostate and testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. Here's to everyone who has endured the hairy lips, and worked to help men live longer, healthier, happier lives. We can't do it without you."

The first Mega 50/50 raffle of the season features 30 prizes to be won including multiple cash prizes, a Ford Bronco, an Upper Deck card package, Blake Shelton concert tickets, multiple gift cards, and Oilers merchandise and game tickets.

Customers who purchase $25 in 50/50 tickets will receive a voucher for an Oilers collectible cup, claimable with a dine-in purchase at participating Boston Pizza locations, while customers who purchase $100 in 50/50 tickets will receive $25 for Jiffy Lube and $25 for Century Hospitality Group.

Oilers Mega 50/50 tickets can be purchased at EdmontonOilers.com/5050.