NY Islanders set to raise money for the family of fallen NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller
Back on Long Island for Tuesday night's game with the Chicago Blackhawks, the New York Islanders organization held a moment of silence at UBS Arena to honor fallen NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller, who was killed in the line of duty on Mar. 25 in Far Rockaway.
In the days following the tragic death of the 31-year-old, the tri-state area learned that he was a former hockey player and avid fan of the Isles, the hometown team for the Massapequa Park native. At his wake on Saturday, the priest officiating the service asked mourners to pray for the team, which reportedly brought chuckles from those in attendance at St. Rose of Lima Roman Catholic Church.
Now the team he loved will be doing something for the people he loved.
The Islanders announced that all the proceeds from Saturday night's 50/50 drawing will go to the Diller Family, benefitting his widow, Stephanie, and his 1-year-old son, Ryan.
"Our Hockey With a Heart charities (Tunnel to Towers and Northwell Health Foundation) have come together to support Officer Diller’s family, with all proceeds of Saturday’s 50/50 drawing going to the Diller family. Tickets can be purchased starting tomorrow [Wednesday]", the team posted on social media at the start of the game.
The Islanders hold a 50/50 raffle during each home game. According to the team website, it gives "fans in the community the opportunity to support local charities with an emphasis on health and education initiatives for children and families along with non-profit partners through the team's Hockey with a Heart Program."
Tickets can be purchased online or at the arena.