Young patients can find comfort from hockey idols during treatment through new Smilezone spaces

The mural, featuring four NHLPA members players currently with the Edmonton Oilers, is much more than just an eye-catching piece of art for Adam Graves. It holds deep personal meaning, symbolizing the spirit of community and support.

Graves, the former NHL power forward whose career was highlighted by Stanley Cup wins with Edmonton in 1990 and in 1994 with the New York Rangers, paused to admire the mural on the wall at Stollery Children’s Hospital in Edmonton, which features Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman, Connor McDavid and Darnell Nurse.

The artwork symbolizes the positive impact that hockey and NHL players can have, especially when tied to charitable causes like Smilezone Foundation, a non-profit organization co-founded by Graves that is committed to improving the lives of children receiving medical treatment at health facilities across Canada.

On March 3, Graves was joined by Hyman and Oilers’ teammates Jeff Skinner and Corey Perry, along with representatives from NHLPA Goals & Dreams, to celebrate the players' charitable arm contributing $150,000 as part of the program’s 25th anniversary and announce the grand opening of 14 rooms in Stollery’s Pediatric Diabetes Clinic and Outpatient Psychiatry program.

Each Smilezone is designed with custom murals that blend local nature themes and hockey imagery, along with interactive technology and sensory-friendly elements. The spaces are crafted to offer a welcoming and calming environment that helps reduce stress for young patients and their families, fostering comfort and supporting the healing process.

“Any time we can give back, especially to a place like this that helps so many kids … to be able to come here is everything,” said Hyman.

“It’s about bringing a smile to a child’s face when they’re going through a tough time and need it the most,” said Graves, who played two seasons with the Oilers and was an instrumental member when NHLPA Goals & Dreams was founded in 1999. “We’re proud to be part of something that brings comfort and healing to so many young patients.”

Skinner, in his 15th NHL season, and first with Edmonton, lauded the project and those who helped it come to fruition.

“It’s always nice, for me, personally, to see people work so hard behind the scenes do something that will bring a lot of smiles to people who are dealing with difficult circumstances,” said Skinner. “It’s moments like these that put your life in perspective.”

The new Smilezones at Stollery were first announced at the foundation’s annual golf tournament last July by Graves, Ron Hainsey (NHLPA assistant executive director) and Devin Smith (NHLPA senior director of sponsorship & player marketing).

“This is a​ fitting way to celebrate 25 years of NHL players giving back in their communities,” said Marty Walsh, NHLPA executive director. ​ “NHLPA Goals & Dreams is proud to work with Smilezone Foundation on one of the largest single donations ever made by the players’ charity.”

Skinner is a proud supporter of NHLPA Goals & Dreams.

“To be able to give back and have a positive impact is meaningful to us as players,” said Skinner of the initiative that has seen NHLPA members donate more than $26 million to grassroots hockey programs in 40 countries around the world since 1999 to give back to the game they love. “[NHLPA] Goals & Dreams continues to do amazing work and help kids across the world experience our great sport.”

Hyman shared a similar sentiment.

“It is such an important part of the NHLPA and of all the players, who love to give back,” said the forward, who is playing in his 10th NHL season and fourth with Edmonton.

The grand opening at Stollery marks Smilezone Foundation’s first of the year following a successful 2024 in which the organization completed 96 Smilezone spaces across eight provinces. The foundation continues to expand its nationwide impact, ensuring that children across Canada have access to the healing power of play and positivity.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generous donation from the Smilezone Foundation and NHLPA Goals & Dreams.  The thoughtful clinic design helps children feel safe, engaged, and comfortable, helping them stay connected to their care and reducing stress during visits,” added Christine Westerlund, senior operating officer at Stollery Children’s Hospital, Alberta Health Services.

Whether it’s the mural displayed on the wall or the 14 remodeled Smilezone spaces, Graves hopes those who come to Stollery Children’s Hospital can find a few moments to smile.

“This was the very definition of a team effort,” said Graves. “Thanks to so many people, we can continue our goal of brightening hospital visits for children and their families.”