Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin is mourning the heartbreaking loss of her longtime companion, NHL legend Ron Duguay, who died at 69 following a grueling battle with Stage 4 colon cancer.
Palin, 62, announced the devastating news Thursday in an emotional social media post, sharing her grief while leaning on her Christian faith.
‘It’s with a shattered heart, but also deep peace knowing Ron is with Jesus now. He fought so hard. Love never ends.’
Duguay, a beloved former New York Rangers star, was diagnosed with advanced colon cancer in December 2024. The disease eventually spread to his liver, leading to serious complications and repeated hospitalizations.
Just four days before announcing his death, Palin had turned to supporters for prayers, sharing a photograph of herself holding Duguay’s hand as he lay in a hospital bed.
‘Prayers for Ron Duguay so appreciated,’ she wrote Oct. 18.
The former Republican vice presidential nominee remained close to Duguay throughout his illness, frequently appearing at his bedside as his condition deteriorated.
His daughter, Shay Thomas, also made an emotional plea earlier this month, asking hockey fans to pray for her father.
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‘I wasn’t planning on posting anything. but I believe in the power of prayer, and right now, we need all the prayers we can get. And I know so many love him so much. Please keep our dad in your prayers. @noah_duguay @amberstavros’ she wrote.
Duguay’s final months were marked by a series of frightening medical emergencies.
In July, the former hockey star was rushed to a hospital after fainting at home and suffering severe facial injuries in a fall.
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Doctors subsequently discovered serious complications associated with his cancer treatment and liver disease, including internal bleeding, an ulcer and increased pressure in blood vessels supplying the liver.
His treatment included chemotherapy, surgery and a hepatic pump. He also underwent procedures involving the removal of his gallbladder and appendix.
The family previously established a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the mounting expenses associated with his treatment.
‘Because of his cancer, he hasn’t been able to work the way he normally would,’ Shay explained.
‘Earlier in his treatment journey, the care he received in Florida nearly cost him his life. That led us to bring him to Orange County, where my sister and I live, so he could receive treatment here.’
Palin and Duguay had been romantically linked since 2022, although the pair never publicly established an official relationship label.
Earlier this year, Shay described the two as ‘very close,’ explaining that medical treatments and Palin’s responsibilities caring for her son, Trig, had limited their time together.
Beyond his relationship with Palin, Duguay leaves behind a remarkable professional hockey legacy.
The Rangers selected him 13th overall in the 1977 NHL draft, launching a 12-season career that included appearances with the Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins and Los Angeles Kings.
Known for his flowing hair, speed and unmistakable presence on the ice, Duguay became a favorite among Rangers fans.
He finished his career with 216 goals, 320 assists and 536 points in more than 860 games.
His standout season came in 1981-82, when he scored a career-high 40 goals.
Following his playing career, Duguay spent 12 years as a Rangers studio analyst for MSG Network before departing in 2018.
The Rangers honored their former star following news of his death.
‘The New York Rangers organization mourns the loss of Ron Duguay, one of the most popular players in franchise history. Ron’s signature skating style – with his hair flowing as he moved down the ice – captivated The Garden Faithful, and his skill, tenacity, and charisma earned him the admiration of all New Yorkers.
‘We join the hockey community in sending our condolences to Ron’s friends, family, and loved ones during this difficult time.’
For Palin, the announcement marked the painful conclusion of a battle she had publicly followed with prayer, devotion and hope.
Duguay was 69.
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[ H/T Trending Politics ]
