Islanders legend Mike Bossy reveals lung cancer battle

Islanders legend Mike Bossy reveals lung cancer battle

Islanders legend Mike Bossy is stepping away from his TV job at TVA Sports due to lung cancer, he announced in an open letter on Tuesday afternoon.

“Today it is with great sorrow that I must retire from your screens for an obligatory break,” Bossy wrote in French. “A necessary stop during which I will have to receive treatment for lung cancer. 1-0 so far, but I haven’t said my last word …

“I assure you that I intend to fight with all the determination and all the ardor that you have seen me display on the ice and in my game. That same determination that has helped me achieve my dreams and counting my goals, the one that propelled me to the top of my sport, when I still put on my skates.”

Bossy, a Hall of Famer and four-time Stanley Cup winner with the Islanders, has worked with TVA Sports — Canada’s French-language NHL broadcaster — since 2015. Prior to that, he worked for MSG for a year. While playing with the Islanders, Bossy won the 1978 Calder Trophy, the 1982 Conn Smythe Trophy and scored 573 career goals, good for 22nd all-time.

Islanders Mike Bossy cancerIslanders legend Mike Bossy revealed Tuesday he’s battling lung cancer.Getty Images

An eight-time All-Star, Bossy played his entire career on The Island.

“The battle I am about to wage will not be easy,” Bossy wrote. “Know that I will give my 100%, nothing less, with the objective of meeting you again soon, after a very eventful hockey game. You will never be very far in my thoughts. On the contrary, you will occupy a privileged place and you will be one of my motivations to get better.

Mike Bossy cancer IslandersMike Bossy playing for the Islanders in 1982.Getty Images

“Like athletes who are about to deliver the performance of their lives, I will need all of my strength and focus. Surrounded by my family and friends, I want to preserve this sacred and peaceful space away from cameras and interviews

“I am confident that I can count on your discretion and understanding.”