The future is bright on Long Island following an exciting 2025-2026 New York Islanders season that saw rookie defensemen Matthew Schaefer emerge as one of the NHL’s most dynamic young talents. After drafting Matthew Schaefer as the #1 selection in the 2025 NHL Draft, he immediately made an impact on the team, delivering a season for the record books. Schaefer finished with 23 goals and 36 assists for 59 points in 82 games, and earned a Calder Trophy nomination, making him a standout on the ice and one of the most exciting young athletes in the New York sports landscape.  

It’s because of Matthew’s dedication, perseverance and deeply personal story that Northwell Health is excited to announce a new long-term relationship with the 18-year old superstar and the creation of the “Jennifer Schaefer Child Support Center sponsored by the Islanders Children’s Foundation,” in memory of his late mother. As the Official Health Care Partner of the New York Islanders, Northwell is looking to highlight its commitment to the communities it serves, particularly around cancer care, and collaborating with Matthew is another meaningful step toward that.  

A star gives back

Matthew’s desire to give back to the community is inspired by a difficult personal moment. Growing up in a close-knit family outside Toronto, Matthew first made headlines in junior hockey when he was selected first overall in the 2023 Ontario Hockey League. Sadly, Matthew’s life changed forever in 2024, when his mother, Jennifer Schaefer, passed away from breast cancer just as his career was starting to take off. 

In her memory, the “Jennifer Schaefer Child Support Center sponsored by the Islanders Children’s Foundation,” will open this October during Breast Cancer Awareness month. The center will be located inside the R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Center for Medical Oncology and Hematology, a comprehensive medical practice and state-of-the-art cancer treatment infusion center, including clinical trials. Staffed by renowned specialized medical oncologists and hematologists, the cancer center is part of the Northwell Cancer Institute.

The room is made possible by a generous gift from the Islanders Children’s Foundation, and will serve as a safe space, providing resources and therapy for children who are there while their parent or loved one is receiving treatment. The room will feature design elements and memorabilia from Matthew, alongside inspirational messages for families that use the room.  

“A cancer diagnosis is one of the most difficult things a person can face, but it also challenges their family in myriad ways,” said John D’Angelo, MD, president and CEO of Northwell Health. “Caring for families is just as important to us as caring for our patients. We are grateful to the Islanders Children’s Foundation for its support to create this unique space and proud to team up with Matthew Schaefer, whose personal story and public platform will uplift our patients and community. By working together, we are sending a powerful message of resilience, unity and hope to everyone facing a cancer diagnosis.”

Matthew will also visit the room throughout the year to bring smiles and support to those going through an experience he can relate to.

Helping families persevere

Beyond the new center, Matthew will spend time at Northwell Health facilities when he has time away from the ice, specifically visiting the Cohen Children’s Medical Center to offer inspiration to pediatric cancer patients and their families. He has already provided words of encouragement to a family with a small child in treatment.

“Meeting Matthew Schaefer was such a meaningful experience to Henry and our family. We’re incredibly thankful to Northwell and Matthew for creating that opportunity. Seeing Henry’s joy in that moment is something we’ll never forget,” said Angela Schafer, mom to Henry, 9, who received treatment at Northwell’s Cohen Children’s Medical Center.

Matthew has also met with about 50 current patients, pediatric cancer survivors, families, and staff and helped one family celebrate a one-year cancer-free milestone.

“We were so honored to meet Matthew Schaefer because he is our son’s favorite hockey player. It is so nice that he takes the time to meet with kids who are dealing with illnesses. He is a great role model. We can’t wait to continue following his career with the Islanders,” said Dana Mencarelli, mom to Matthew Mencarelli, 7, who received treatment at Northwell’s Cohen Children’s Medical Center.

Northwell Health and Matthew Schaefer’s journey is just getting started. This partnership establishes a permanent, powerful legacy in his late mother’s name, ensuring that hope and compassionate support are extended to every child whose family is fighting cancer.