Leland Irving: An inspiration to sick kids everywhere

Leland Irving was selected as one of the goaltenders to compete for Team Canada at the 2007 World Junior Hockey Championships in Sweden, but he didn't play a single minute - Carey Price dominated the tournament instead. Many would show disappointment, but not Irving. He always had a bright smile on his face.

Irving is the star goaltender for the Everett Silvertips of the WHL, and was drafted in the first round of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft by the Calgary Flames. He will once again represent his nation at the Super Series this year, but there was a time when his future wasn't so bright. There was a time when his very survival was in doubt.

When he was just eight years old, Irving was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. He endured 13 months of chemotherapy, but still managed to keep a positive attitude. He played hockey as often as possible during this time, and it probably helped him to overcome the disease.

Now cancer-free, Irving is an inspiration to many sick children. It's not easy living with an illness, and it's hard to keep going when things get difficult, but perseverance can bring great things.