Making It Possible #11 – Jeff Jackson
For families living with ALS, moments matter.
A night at an Edmonton Oilers game may seem like a simple experience, but for someone facing the challenges of ALS, it can mean time with loved ones, a chance to focus on joy instead of appointments and uncertainty, and memories that will last long after the final buzzer sounds.
Those moments have been made possible for many ALS families this year thanks to Jeff Jackson. As CEO of the Edmonton Oilers and board member of ALS Action Canada, Jeff has been a passionate supporter of the ALS community. His connection to the cause began through his friendship with former NHL player Mark Kirton, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2018. Rather than standing on the sidelines, Jeff helped bring together leaders across the hockey community to raise awareness and support for people living with the disease.
Mark often spoke about the power of teamwork in the fight against ALS. With Jeff’s support, all seven Canadian NHL teams united behind the ALS Super Fund, demonstrating what can happen when people come together around a common goal. Their efforts helped raise awareness and critical funding for research and support programs across Canada.
Here in Alberta, Jeff’s commitment has extended beyond fundraising and advocacy. Throughout the season, he has generously provided Edmonton Oilers tickets to families connected to the ALS Society of Alberta. The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation has also donated net proceeds from its 50/50 during branded games in support of the ALS Super Fund, also inviting impact families to the game. These experiences have allowed clients, caregivers, and loved ones to spend time together, celebrate special occasions, and create memories in the midst of an incredibly difficult journey.
His support reflects a simple but powerful belief: that people living with ALS deserve moments of connection, joy, and community.
As we celebrate ALS Awareness Month, we are grateful for champions like Jeff Jackson who use their generosity and compassion to make each day the best possible day for Albertans living with and affected by ALS.
“Mark believed deeply in the power of teamwork and that we are stronger when we work together toward a common goal. He faced a very tough battle with remarkable courage and good humour, and his memory lives on through the people and communities he inspired. The movement Mark helped create continues to grow, and his friends and family across the NHL are energized to carry on his legacy by fighting ALS, raising awareness and supporting families living with this disease.” – Jeff Jackson, CEO, Hockey Operations, Edmonton Oilers
“Receiving tickets from Jeff Jackson and the Edmonton Oilers turned into such an amazing experience. Roger’s Place is my favourite place to be and enjoying an Oilers win, in incredible seats, is a memory I’m grateful to have. Thanks so much for the opportunity! “ – Dan Pubben
