JOHNSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — A young hockey player from Johnston, Rhode Island, is spending the month of October raising money for breast cancer research in honor of his number one fan.

Lucas Marcaccio has been playing hockey since he was 3 years old, which is why he decided to combine the game he loves with a cause that’s close to his heart.

“I’m just trying to do all I can to help,” the 10-year-old goalie said.

His mother Julie Maraccio was diagnosed with breast cancer back in March 2023.

“When I found out, luckily I didn’t need chemo and I just needed radiation,” Julie explained. “I told him everything and he immediately was like, ‘What can I do?'”

Lucas has been sporting a bright pink jersey and taping his hockey stick up in pink to show his support for October Saves, which he first got involved with last year. Every save he makes in the net throughout the month raises money for breast cancer research, on top of the donations he collects while off the ice.

“My jersey says, ‘I wear pink for my mom,'” Lucas said. “I’ve been with her every step of the way.”

He raised $1,600 last year and is hoping to raise at least $5,000 this year.

“This means so much to me because I love my mom,” he said.

Julie said seeing her son put so much effort into the cause leaves her speechless.

“I’m just so proud of him,” Julie said. “I’m a single mom and he’s an only child. He’s my number one fan and I’m his number one fan.”

“He’s continuing it not only for me but for other people,” she continued. “He is just one amazing kid.”

Anyone interested in donating to the cause can do so online.