During the post-lockout era of the National Hockey League, no goalie has been more consistent per season than Buffalo’s Ryan Miller. Since becoming the permanent starter for the Sabres, the East Lansing, Michigan native has posted a goals against average of under 3.00 and a save percentage of over .900. He has led the Buffalo Sabres to the playoffs four times and led the United States men’s hockey team to the gold medal game at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. He was named MVP of the tournament and later went on to beat out Martin Brodeur and Ilya Bryzgalov as the winner of the 2010 Vezina Trophy. His consistency and dominance between the pipes has led him to be a fan favourite in Buffalo, as well as the cornerstone for the Sabres organization, and is also admired for his charitable efforts and selflessness within the community.
In 2006, Miller, along with his father, started the Steadfast Foundation in recognition of a close relative who had been diagnosed with leukemia. The Foundation aims to raise public awareness of efforts and support towards the ill effects and the changes that occur to those who suffer from cancer. His work takes a heavy aim towards children’s leukemia and the life altering effects it has on patients and their families. Through various events such as auctions and fundraisers, the Steadfast Foundation gains numerous supporters in the fight against cancer.
For any individual going through severe health issues it can be very painful and hard for not only themselves, but for their families as well. Key components to Ryan Miller’s aim is to provide proper support and care to maintain a positive attitude and faith, allowing families to go through their battles with as little pain as possible. Miller also supports Carly’s Club at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo where he works with families and makes frequent visits to the children and patients.
In 2010, Ryan Miller and the Steadfast Foundation received recognition for their work and selflessness by receiving that year’s NHL Foundation Award; making Miller the first American-born player to receive the honour. What makes Miller so special to the city of Buffalo and the Sabres organization is his ability to keep his composure on and off the ice. He is a key asset to his hockey team and is the backbone to a team that is fighting for it’s first Stanley Cup. He possesses qualities held by true heroes and puts a smile on so many faces for every save he makes on and off the ice.
For more information on Ryan and the Steadfast Foundation, visit http://www.thesteadfastfoundation.com/index.htm
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