Twelve-year-old Cosmo Amaiso and ten-year-old Cecily Eklund made their way through the toughest battle life can throw at you: pediatric cancer. Now, the best friends from Edmonton have decided to use their experiences in the most positive way possible, co-authoring a book to spread kindness to other children going through a similar experience. They even tied in a little bit of hockey on the way.
The Kindness Coin is a story based on their personal experiences with the disease. You can purchase the book here.
“It’s about a magical coin and the rest you’re going to have to figure out,” Cecily told reporters at Global News.
While Cecily is intent on not spoiling the plot, the book features quotes from Edmonton Oilers’ stars Leon Draisaitl, Evander Kane, Mattias Ekholm, Zach Hyman, and other hockey players. Canadian musician and two-time Grammy-winner Sarah McLachlan also contributed.
The foreword was written by Cassie Campbell-Pascall, a two-time Olympic champion, who was the first woman to ever be a color commentator for Sportsnet’s Hockey Night in Canada. The special advisor to the PWHL is no stranger how much the game of hockey can really mean to someone and is outspoken on how our actions as humans can affect those around us.
“Throughout my hockey journey,” the Calgarian wrote in a statement for Instagram, “I have learned the importance of inclusion, equity, leadership, treating others with kindness and respect, and teamwork. These are values I try to told myself to each day.”
What an honour to write the Forward to this tremendous book done by two amazing kids. Please help support the @BenStelterFund and purchase a book to help kids with cancer and their families.https://t.co/wQgO3Wcgm7 pic.twitter.com/Y4lm2JbOA9
— Cassie Campbell-Pascall (@CassieCampbell) March 12, 2024
While the foreword alone was enough to bring us to tears, the cause behind the book is equally empowering. The book was published and will benefit the Ben Stelter Foundation, a charity that supports children battling pediatric cancer. Edmonton Oilers superfan Ben Stelter was diagnosed with glioblastoma just two months shy of his fifth birthday. After fighting a long battle, he passed away in August of 2022, but not before inspiring hockey fans everywhere.
During his life, Ben’s love for the Oilers was contagious. He attended pre-game skates, spent time with the team after a victory, frequented the audience and sincerely captured the heart of Connor McDavid, who has continued to support Ben’s foundation.
I am teaming with @ashifmawji and family to pledge $100,000 towards the newly launched Ben Stelter Fund, to get better outcomes for youth that are battling cancer. We challenge all athletes, individuals and businesses to be a part of this! https://t.co/Wq557jb7rD pic.twitter.com/jVGUZy0i42
— Connor McDavid (@cmcdavid97) December 8, 2022
“He had such a big personality for such a little guy,” McDavid said in a video from the Oilers. “[I have] so many great memories with him.”
The foundation raises money to help families going through what the Stelters went through. Whether it be funding an experience for a child or helping pay for medical expenses, Ben’s family knew they wanted to share the love that he shared with them and their community. The foundation gifted Cosmo his dream trampoline and sent Cecily tickets to an Oilers game, while also giving her a trip to Disneyland. All proceeds from the book return to the foundation, in hopes that they can continue their work in Ben’s name. The story has taken the hockey community by storm, and fans everywhere are sharing about the book and Ben’s journey, including former Capital Justin Williams.
What a great idea and such a worthwhile cause. https://t.co/VVAl8RJbtI
— Justin Williams (@JustinWilliams) March 12, 2024
“After Ben passed away, we knew that we needed to carry on his name and his legacy,” Ben’s mom Lea said in a video from the Oilers. “And it was really important for us to be able to help other families that are going through what Ben went through.”
In February of 2023, the Oilers took first skate donning jerseys that read “Stelter” on the back, later auctioning them off to support the Ben Stelter foundation.
The charity’s next way to honor Ben’s life was by publishing The Kindness Coin.
“This book is dedicated to any child that has ever had cancer, or will face it in the future,” the website reads. “And to anyone who has ever loved a child with cancer. We are stronger together. Love, Cecily and Cosmo”
