Sudarshan Maharaj got to say two words of triumph on Monday. The Anaheim Ducks goaltending coach is officially “cancer free.”
Maharaj was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer back in May 2023 and had been undergoing treatment in Toronto. To celebrate, Maharaj and his wife Yvonne hosted a family party over the weekend in Toronto, as the beloved Ducks coach rang the “cancer free” bell.
Maharaj was given a very low chance of survival and faced long odds undergoing major surgery that required the removal his entire gallbladder, parts of his small intestines, pancreas and stomach, with 11 rounds of chemotherapy and numerous other challenges.
“It’s been an emotional year for my family and me, culminating with the incredible news that I am cancer free,” Maharaj said in a statement. “There are so many people for me to thank — starting with Henry, Susan and Jillian Samueli, Aaron Teats, Pat Verbeek and the entire Ducks organization. The support I received from around the league is beyond words. The hockey world is an incredible place.
“I wouldn’t be here today without the support of my wife, Yvonne, and two daughters, Alexandra and Katherine. In many ways I am extremely lucky, beginning with having them in my life.
“My doctors — specifically Dr. Ko, Dr. Jayaraman and Dr. Lawrence — saved my life. They are truly amazing people that I will be grateful for every day of my life.
“My good friend and fellow coach Mike Stothers, who is also winning his fight against cancer, reminded us all after his diagnosis that we should listen to our body and see a doctor if something feels off. I did just that, and I’m alive today as a direct result. Thank you Mike, and thank you all!”
The 59-year-old joined the Ducks organization before the 2013-14 season as a consultant with the club’s former AHL affiliate, the Norfolk Admirals. He joined the Ducks’ coaching staff in 2016 where he became the club’s goaltending coach.
