Training camps open for NHL teams within the next week or so, but one Nashville Predators prospect is focused on something far more important than making a roster.
Austin Roest, a 2023 sixth-round draft pick, shared an emotional message on Instagram revealing that his girlfriend, Milara Okabe, has been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer.
Roest posted two photos of himself with Okabe as she lay in a hospital bed.
"Milly, I don't even know what to say. I am so sorry this is happening to you. No one deserves to go through this," he wrote. "That being said, I have no doubt in my mind you will beat cancer. You are the strongest person I know."
"I love you so much and I will be right there with you through all of this," he added.
Okabe, a 22-year-old former figure skater, was diagnosed with stage 4 adenocarcinoma, a cancer that starts in the glandular cells lining the inside of organs. It's unclear which of her organs have been affected.
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Roest shared a link to a GoFundMe page set up by Okabe's friend, Kristin LeDuc, to help support her through treatment. The page has raised more than $86,000 since launching.
The hockey community has responded with widespread support. The Predators commented on Roest's post, saying they were "sending all our love."
Hayley Wickenheiser wrote,
"You got this Milly, and Austin too. Sending healing vibes your way. Hang in there."
Jessica Fiala, wife of Kings forward Kevin Fiala, also shared supportive messages, while Ducks goaltender Lukas Dostal donated $2,000 to the GoFundMe.
Roest played five seasons of junior hockey with the Everett Silvertips in the WHL, posting a career-high 78 points in 60 games in the season he was drafted.
He remains part of Nashville's prospect pipeline as he continues his development.
Our thoughts are with Roest, Okabe, and their families during this difficult time.
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