Duguay’s battle began taking a serious turn after he was diagnosed with advanced colon cancer in December 2024. The disease later spread to his liver, triggering a cascade of complications that required extensive medical intervention and repeated hospital stays.
In the days leading up to his death, Palin made a heartfelt appeal to her supporters, asking them to keep the ailing hockey legend in their prayers.
On October 18, she posted a photograph showing herself holding Duguay’s hand as he lay in a hospital bed.
‘Prayers for Ron Duguay so appreciated,’ she wrote.
The photograph offered a glimpse into the difficult reality facing the couple as Duguay’s health continued to decline. For Palin, who had remained involved throughout his illness, the final days brought renewed concern and an outpouring of support from those hoping for his recovery.
Family Asked Hockey Fans to Pray as His Condition Worsened
Duguay’s daughter, Shay Thomas, had also turned to social media earlier in October to ask for prayers as her father’s condition became increasingly concerning.
Her message conveyed the desperation felt by a family watching a loved one endure a relentless medical battle.
‘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.
The family’s appeals highlighted the emotional toll of Duguay’s illness and the uncertainty surrounding his recovery. Despite the treatments available to him, his health problems continued to mount, leaving his loved ones hoping for a breakthrough.
His final months were particularly difficult. In July, Duguay was rushed to the hospital after fainting at home and sustaining serious facial injuries in a fall.
Medical examinations subsequently revealed dangerous complications involving his cancer treatment and liver disease. Among the problems were internal bleeding, an ulcer and elevated pressure in the blood vessels supplying his liver.
His treatment had already included chemotherapy, surgery and a hepatic pump, a device used to deliver medication directly to the liver. He also underwent procedures to remove his gallbladder and appendix.
The combination of advanced cancer, invasive treatments and additional medical complications placed enormous demands on Duguay and his family.
As the expenses mounted, his relatives established a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the cost of his care.
Shay explained that her father’s illness had significantly affected his ability to earn a living.
‘Because of his cancer, he hasn’t been able to work the way he normally would,’ Shay explained.
She also described a difficult decision the family made while searching for better medical care.
‘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.’
The account underscored the challenges faced by families dealing with aggressive cancer, from finding appropriate treatment to managing the financial strain that can accompany a prolonged illness.
Palin and Duguay Shared a Close Bond
Palin and Duguay were first linked romantically in 2022, and their connection continued through some of the most difficult periods of his illness.
The former Republican vice presidential nominee stood by him as his condition worsened, even as she continued to navigate her own family responsibilities.
Earlier this year, Thomas described Palin and her father as ‘very close.’ She explained that the demands of Duguay’s medical treatment, along with Palin’s responsibilities caring for her son, Trig, had limited the time the two could spend together.
Nevertheless, Palin’s public messages during his final days reflected the depth of her concern and the importance of faith in helping her cope with the situation.
Her announcement was not simply a farewell to a celebrated athlete. It was also a deeply personal expression of grief following a long period of uncertainty, hospital visits and hopes that Duguay might overcome the disease.
NHL Legend Leaves Behind an Impressive Legacy
While Duguay’s final months were defined by his health struggles, his legacy in professional hockey stretches back decades.
The New York Rangers selected him with the 13th overall pick in the 1977 NHL Draft, launching a professional career that would span 12 seasons.
Duguay became one of the most recognizable personalities associated with the Rangers during his playing days. His speed, offensive ability and flowing hair made him a memorable presence on the ice, earning him a devoted following among fans at Madison Square Garden.
He also played for the Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins and Los Angeles Kings during his NHL career.
Across more than 860 games, Duguay recorded 216 goals and 320 assists, finishing with 536 points. His best individual scoring season came in 1981–82, when he found the back of the net 40 times.
His impact on the sport continued after he hung up his skates.
Duguay transitioned into broadcasting and spent 12 years working as a studio analyst for MSG Network, covering the Rangers and remaining connected to the franchise and its supporters. He left the position in 2018.
The role allowed fans to continue hearing from a familiar face long after his playing career had ended, cementing his place in the Rangers community beyond his accomplishments on the ice.
Following news of his death, the Rangers organization paid tribute to the former player, recognizing both his athletic achievements and the personality that made him a fan favorite.
‘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.’
The tribute reflected the affection Duguay continued to command throughout the hockey world. His career was remembered not only for his scoring ability but also for the charisma and unmistakable style that made him stand out among his contemporaries.
A Painful Farewell After Months of Hope
Duguay’s death represents a devastating loss for his family, friends, former teammates and the countless fans who followed his career.
For Palin, the news brings an especially painful end to months of worry as she watched someone close to her fight an aggressive disease. Her final public words about Duguay emphasized the difficulty of saying goodbye while expressing confidence that he was now at peace.
The outpouring of support from family members, hockey fans and the Rangers organization illustrates the reach of Duguay’s legacy, both as a professional athlete and as a person whose life touched people beyond the rink.
His battle with Stage 4 colon cancer was marked by intensive treatment, frightening medical emergencies and the determination of those who stood beside him.
Although his life ended at 69, Duguay leaves behind a lasting place in New York Rangers history and memories that will endure among the fans who watched him play.
For Palin and Duguay’s loved ones, the immediate days ahead will be filled with grief and remembrance. Yet her message offered a final reflection on the bond they shared and the faith that helped sustain her through his illness.
‘Love never ends.’
Those words served as Palin’s poignant farewell to a man whose loss will be felt by his family, his friends and the hockey community that celebrated his remarkable career.
