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Community takes action to help Admirals mascot who is fighting cancer

Posted at 11:34 PM, Nov 08, 2013
and last updated 2013-11-09 07:19:20-05

Full stands make a busy night for the Admirals' mascot, Hat Trick. It's Art Sessoms old job, and one he wishes he was healthy enough to do once again.

"And you don't get to see them no more, it's probably one of the hardest things to do," said Sessoms.

A month after the Admirals hoisted the Calder cup in the summer of 2012, Sessoms found out his 12th season as Hat Trick would be his last. He had bone marrow cancer and renal kidney failure.

"Actually I don't believe it, but they say between 12 and 18 months," Sessoms said. "But I'm not giving up."

His mind is filled with memories of getting fans of all ages excited. His days, though, are spent at home in Suffolk.

"Not being able to get out and do anything is just really hard on me because it was my best thing to do," Sessoms said.

Sessoms' optimism is like Hat Trick's smile, it's always there, despite adversity that would leave anyone else depressed.

"We don't have any insurance. We don't have any money coming in but we have our faith in God just to keep us going," Sessoms said.

Sessoms and his wife have exhausted themselves, trying to find any assistance in paying the bills. After a decade plus of bringing joy to fans, they're now returning the favor.

The booster club is having silent auctions throughout the year, with all the money going to Sessoms.

If you can't make to the Scope, you can still take action, by bidding on Admirals gear on Ebay or by going to any Wells Fargo and donating to the Blessings for Hat Trick fund.

It's all in hopes that Sessoms can overcome the odds and return to the Scope to bring happiness to Admirals fans again.