Tampa Bay Lightning alumni Brian Boyle diagnosed with Leukemia

According to his new team, the New Jersey Devils, Former Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brian Boyle has been diagnosed with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

Tragic news out of New Jersey as former Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brian Boyle has been diagnosed with leukemia.  The announcement comes after Boyle missed practice with the Devils two days ago for “personal reasons”.

According to the Devil’s team doctor Michael Farber, Boyle has been diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia.  The leukemia was found in Boyle’s blood work as part of his regular team physical. The only good bit of news to come from this announcement is that it was discovered early and is treatable.

In true Brian Boyle fashion, after the news hit the first thing he talked about was getting on the ice and playing again.  Per ESPN, Boyle said:  “I don’t like missing games. I feel as close to normal as you can feel. We have a good plan of attack and I look forward to getting on the ice and playing.”

Boyle signed as a free agent with the Lightning in 2014 and was an integral part of the Lightning’s 2015 Stanley Cup run.  He quickly became a fan favorite for his toughness and physical play.

Fans were heartbroken to see him traded just before the 2017 trade deadline and many hoped he would sign with the Lightning again when he became a free agent.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Brian Boyle and his family.  As anyone that has ever seen him play knows, Boyle is as tough and brave as they come.

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This challenge will undoubtedly be faced with the same courage and grit that he plays with every time he hits the ice.  Regardless of if he plays with the Lightning or not anymore, we’re cheering for you, Brian Boyle.