Walker: Wife's cancer news 'hard to handle'

(NECN/WTVD: Raleigh, N.C.) - The man vilified in Boston for punching Bruins defenseman Aaron Ward in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals learned that his wife was diagnosed with cervical cancer during that very series. Scott Walker said that his wife, Julie, wants him to concentrate on hockey during the playoffs. The team said that her cervical cancer is treatable and she is expected to make a full recovery. "She's been strong and we're going to get this fixed and she'll be fine," Walker said. "I'm just happy for the support from all my teammates and the organization, and prayers that I've had from a lot of people." "Being a tough player -- or people talk about me like that -- this is one that doesn't matter how tough you are. It's hard to handle," Walker said. Walker said that the playoff games help take his mind off the subject, and that his teammates' wives keep her busy when he is on the road. The Hurricans defeated Boston in overtime of Game 7 on Walker's first goal of the playoffs. The Canes move on to face the Pittsburgh Penguins in the Eastern Conference finals. <i>Video courtesy of WTVD</i>.