Former St. Louis Blues enforcer Kelly Chase’s leukemia is remission, and he’s leading major fundraising efforts with strong support from the hockey community.

ST. LOUIS — Former St. Louis Blues enforcer Kelly Chase says his leukemia is in remission, offering a measure of optimism as he continues to battle serious complications from the disease and raise money for cancer research.

Chase told 5 On Your Side sports director Frank Cusumano in an interview last week that his condition has improved following a 2023 diagnosis. Still, he faces significant health challenges, including graft-versus-host disease that has affected his vision and caused severe pain.

“Right now it’s in remission, so we’ll take that as a positive,” Chase said.

The 56-year-old has become a central figure in fundraising efforts for cancer research, with a recent charity game at Centene Community Ice Center drawing widespread support. The event raised more than $500,000, pushing total contributions tied to his efforts past $2 million.

Chase said the response from fans, former teammates and the broader hockey community has been overwhelming.

“I’m blessed to have the fans that support me,” he said.

Former players have contributed both financially and personally, underscoring the tight-knit nature of the hockey community. Chase described the support as a reflection of a “brotherhood” willing to rally around those in need.

In addition to charity games, Chase is spearheading a raffle for a customized Lamborghini featuring images of players and team figures, with proceeds benefiting cancer-related causes. Tickets are being sold for $100, with organizers aiming to raise several hundred thousand dollars.

Chase said his diagnosis has changed his perspective, particularly as he has become more aware of how many people are affected by cancer.

“I never imagined the amount of people that I knew,” he said. “It seems like younger and younger people are finding out they have some type of cancer.”

Despite his athletic background, Chase said the illness has tested him in ways hockey never did. While he was accustomed to physical pain during his playing career, he described the ongoing battle with cancer as a different kind of challenge, including long periods of isolation and debilitating eye pain that has caused him to lose consciousness.

“There’s a lot of lonely nights,” he said.

Chase, who has lost significant weight during his illness, said he is focused on regaining strength while holding onto the belief that he will recover.

“I honestly feel like I’m going to win,” he said.

He also expressed gratitude to supporters and confidence in his future.

“First of all, thank you so much for your support,” Chase said. “I’m going to be OK. I’m going to win.”