Leafs prospect Rodion Amirov paying it forward while battling a brain tumor
It's been months since we've heard anything about Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Rodion Amirov and how he's doing in his battle with a brain tumor. Well, if the latest announcement from Ufa Salavat Yulaev (Amirov's KHL team) is any indication, Amirov is doing well.
Per the team's official Instagram post, Amirov is taking part in an event to support a young fan named Katie who has a serious blood disorder, requiring her to undergo regular blood transfusions. The event is called "Green Heart Day" and it will be taking place on July 7th at Ufa's home arena. Amirov will be taking part in a two-hour autograph signing during the event. There will also be an area for those who wish to donate blood.
Amirov has been going through treatment for his condition in Germany and while the hope is that the 20-year-old will make a full recovery, a lack of communication from the Leafs or Amirov himself on the subject means that we simply don't know where he's at in terms of his overall health. I'd think the fact that he's taking part in this event is a pretty good sign that he's still feeling pretty well and in good spirits.
Amirov revealed the news of his condition to the Leafs back in January and Leafs GM Kyle Dubas broke the news to the fanbase in February during a live press conference. We're all pulling for Rodion to beat this thing, not just as fans, but as humans first. Hell of a thing for a 20-year-old to have to go through.
It's really nice to see Amirov paying it forward and supporting a cause like this one for young Katie. I'd imagine that there will be media present to cover the event, so I'd anticipate that we could hear more about how Amirov is doing then as well.
