April 5, 2022 by Mike Dirsa

When the Edmonton Oilers hosted the San Jose Sharks on March 24, the most important thing wasn’t the two points on the line – it was all about Ben Stelter.

Ben, a brave five-year-old boy with a brain tumor, was given the thrill of a lifetime by the Oilers organization. Ben has gone through 30 radiation sessions and four rounds of chemotherapy in an effort to remove the tumor, and with another round of radiation scheduled, his wish of getting to meet the players was granted by the Oilers.

On that night, Ben made us all remember what is important. Ben stood alongside his hero Connor McDavid during the anthem and had a smile from ear to ear. As a long time Oilers fan, this night was special for me, and I will remember it. I just sat back and watched McDavid get down to this sweet, little boy’s level and take in the anthem with him.

Ben’s night with the Oilers didn’t end at the conclusion of the anthems. He was welcomed him into the dressing room after the game, and joined Zach Hyman for his post-game presser as well. Despite everything he has endured in his young life, Ben couldn’t have looked happier all night. And that smile I will remember when I am faced with adversity.

This moment in Oilers history was a special one for me. I have fond memories of the Stanley Cups from the past, the Ray Ferraro call on the Patrik Stefan’s missed empty net, Sam Gagner’s eight-point night, and watching Wayne Gretzky break Gordie Howe’s record with my dad live in-person, but Ben’s story struck an emotional cord. I was deeply moved watching the interactions between Ben and the team.

I wish Ben the best of luck in his fight, and I am grateful we all got a chance to celebrate with this brave little boy. That game is going to carry me for a long time, and I think Ben gave the team a boost as well. Thank you so much Ben for wanting to meet your heroes on the Oilers team. You truly are a hero.