Austin Roest, an emerging hockey player drafted by the Nashville Predators, has taken to social media to rally support as his girlfriend, Milaria Okabe, faces an incredibly challenging diagnosis of Stage 4 cancer. In a poignant Instagram post, Roest expressed his deep affection and unwavering confidence in Okabe’s strength, stating, “You are the strongest person I know, and I know you will overcome everything that comes your way over the next year.”
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The couple’s journey took a profound turn earlier this month when Okabe received her diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, a form of cancer that originates in glandular tissues within organs. Roest shared intimate photographs from Okabe’s hospital room, reflecting the intimacy and urgency of their situation. In his heartfelt message, he acknowledged the difficulty they are confronting, saying, “I don’t even know what to say. I am so sorry this is happening to you. No one deserves to go through this,” while promising to stand by her side throughout her treatment.
In light of the financial and emotional burdens faced by Okabe and her family, a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated by a close friend. The fundraising effort aims to alleviate some of the costs associated with her diagnosis, treatment, and necessary lifestyle adjustments. As of early September, the campaign has garnered more than $73,000 of its $80,000 target, reflecting the outpouring of support from friends, family, and the community.
The GoFundMe page highlights Okabe’s vibrant personality beyond her illness. Her friend Kristin LeDuc, who launched the campaign, described her as “kind, strong and selfless,” emphasising her lifelong dedication to figure skating and her passion for teaching children this beloved sport. “Skating has always been a huge part of Milara’s life,” the campaign states, illustrating her commitment to spreading joy through sports.
Roest, who has had a promising start in his hockey career, was drafted in the sixth round of the 2023 NHL Draft. He has been reassigned to the Nashville Predators’ affiliate teams, including the Milwaukee Admirals in the AHL and the Atlanta Gladiators in the ECHL. While his professional aspirations are significant, it is clear that his relationship with Okabe takes precedence during this difficult chapter of her life.
In her own words, Okabe acknowledged the daunting prospect of her diagnosis but also celebrated her supportive network. “There’s a lot of fear of the unknown,” she shared in a post, “but what I do know is that I am extremely lucky in this life to have friends that are family, and a family that loves me this hard.” This statement encapsulates her strength and gratitude, as she prepares to face the road ahead.
The couple began their relationship just a few months before Okabe’s diagnosis in June 2023, and Roest has made it clear through various posts how much he cherishes their time together. In a celebratory tribute to their first anniversary, he described Okabe as “the best,” further illustrating their close bond amidst adversity.
As the couple navigates this tumultuous period, the support they have received from the community underscores the importance of unity in times of crisis. The GoFundMe initiative is a testament to the efforts to surround Okabe with love, while also addressing the practical challenges imposed by her diagnosis and subsequent treatment.
As the football and figure skating communities rally around them, Roest and Okabe’s story serves as a poignant reminder of resilience and the power of love in the face of adversity. The coming months will undoubtedly be difficult; however, with unwavering support from their network and their commitment to each other, there is hope for brighter days ahead.