Must see: Ducks honor 17-year-old girl battling cancer at home opener

On Sept. 29, Katie Hawley was surprised by Anaheim Ducks forward Rickard Rakell, who invited her to the season opener against the Arizona Coyotes at Honda Center on Thursday.

Moreover, Hawley was going  to be part of the team for a night.

Ducks were made aware that Hawley was a big fan of the team, and especially Rakell, who sent her a video encouraging her to continue the fight. She joined the team last night as a proof and reminder of great perseverance, character, courage and inspiration.

The 17-year-old girl was first diagnosed with ganglioneuroblastoma at age 9, as doctors found an egg-sized, stage 3 tumor in her stomach. After a year of treatment, she enjoyed two years of remission before the cancer returned in February of 2013, this time spreading to her skull, hips and legs.

She continues to fight. Be strong Katie!