Golden Knights’ AHLer Mason Geertsen shares story about cancer diagnosis

A minor-league player is opening up about his health.

On Friday, Henderson Silver Knights defenseman Mason Geertsen released a statement revealing he has d-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The 29-year-old mentioned that he received the diagnosis in November of last year after a scan of his leg revealed he had cancer.

“I chose to keep my diagnosis private and was able to persevere through the worst of it with the support of my wife, family, teammates, doctors, and the Golden Knights organization,” Geertsen said. “Now that I’m on the other side of this journey, I feel it’s incredibly important to share my story and encourage everyone to be their own best health advocate.”

Geertsen admitted that he began treatment immediately, missing of the 2023-24 campaign before returning to the lineup. He said that his cancer is now in remission after continuing treatment through the end of this past summer.

The Vegas Golden Knights’ American Hockey League affiliate is hosting their annual Hockey Fights Cancer this coming Saturday, and Geertsen pointed out that now was the best time to reveal his story.

“I think it’s the perfect moment to remind everyone to schedule their annual well checks, get tested, and speak up if something feels off. My cancer was caught during an unrelated doctor’s visit, and I’m fortunate that it was. One year later, I’m able to continue pursuing a career as a professional hockey player, while feeling confident in my health, all because we caught it early.

“It’s so easy to put off scheduling an appointment but trust me when I say prioritizing your own wellness is something that is worth the time and effort. It has been for me. And to those currently battling, know that you are not in this fight alone. I know what you’re going through, I’m here for you, and I support you.”

Geertsen was originally taken by the Colorado Avalanche in the fourth round of the 2013 NHL Draft. The former Vancouver Giant has bounced around the pro ranks over his 10-year NHL career, making stops with the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils organizations. His 25 NHL appearances came in the 2021-22 season with the Devils.

In 2017, he was on the Colorado Eagles team that won the ECHL’s Kelly Cup.