Boynton, Boston's up-and-coming blueliner, has plenty of reasons to be grateful, both personally and professionally speaking. Although he's destined to become one of the leagues most dependable defenceman, there are still moments when he requires an emotional boost. And that's when he thinks of his uncle.

A quadriplegic as a result of a car accident, David Lostchuck has had to endure the unenviable task of coping with a life-altering condition. Yet he remains steadfastly strong in the face adversity, a source of inspiration to many, including his hockey-playing nephew.

"Whenever I need to really put perspective on things, all I need to do is look to my uncle for strength and support," said Boynton, who played in his first full NHL season in 2001-02, registering 18 points and a plus/minus rating of plus-18. "He's made a huge difference in my life."

Even throughout the demanding NHL regular season, his uncles influence is never far removed. Whether it's a morning skate, during a game or after a tough loss, Boynton constantly reminds himself of how fortunate he truly is but not for the reasons that might immediately come to mind.

"I've achieved my childhood dream of playing in the NHL, but because of people like my uncle, I'll never take it for granted," said the former star of the OHL's Ottawa 67's. "Your life can change in a matter of seconds, so I'm grateful to have someone so strong as a role model."

That special bond between uncle and nephew may have been the impetus behind Boynton's involvement with Shoot For A Cure (SFAC), but its hardly the only reason. Lending a helping hand seems to just come naturally to the 23-year-old, whose mature ways aren't solely confined to the rink.

"I just think its a great program" said the native of Nobleton, Ontario. "I cant really say why its important to me, it just is. I'm honoured to be able to help in any way I can. Ive always felt that giving back in some small way is a very easy thing for me to do. Its something I enjoy doing."

Modesty may prevent him from fully understanding the impact hes had on hundreds of people, but his dedication to supporting worthy causes has hardly gone unnoticed.

"Nick is a class act, someone who constantly gives of himself," said Kurt Gengenbach, SFACs Director of Hockey Operations. "Whenever you need him, hes always there for you."

Don't expect Boynton's charitable efforts to wane as his career continues to grow. The former 1997 draft pick of the Washington Capitals assures he's quite content to continue to assist whenever the opportunity arises.

And while he's rarely caught off-guard on the ice, the 210-pound rearguard was momentarily at a loss when it came to explaining why hockey players are sports most dedicated athletes when it comes to being involved with worthwhile causes.

"It's true, but I don't think I really know why it is," said Boynton, who scored his first goal on October 4, 2001, the night the Bruins retired Raymond Bourque's sweater number 77. "It might be because it was the way we were raised. Helping out just comes naturally to us, I suppose."

Spending time with seriously ill children or those whose lives have been affected by tragedy, is admits Boynton, never easy. But, he insists, it helps him take stock of his own life and in doing so, reminds him of what truly matters most of all.

"I've learned a lot about myself in a very short time and if I ever take anything for granted, I just need to look at the people who show courage on a daily basis. They deserve all the respect and admiration in the world."

Ironically enough, thats how many would describe Boynton himself.

To learn how you can help this important cause, please visit Shoot for a Cure