Family, friends, and hockey community mourn the tragedy surrounding the Gaudreau brothers, leaving behind memories of joy and optimism.
Laid-back Take on the Heartwarming Story of the Gaudreau Family
Hanging out with the Gaudreaus meant a mix of hockey tales and humor. But the family's world came crashing down last year when John and Matt, two beloved brothers, were taken in a tragic accident. The duo, known for their love of children and hockey, left behind a legacy of laughter—and now it's time to honor their memory in a tangible way.
Enter the Gaudreau Family 5K! The event, set to roll out on May 31, is not just a run, it's a tribute. And it's more than just a run, with a family-friendly fun day thrown into the mix. The goal? To rebuild an adaptive playground at Archbishop Damiano School, a place close to the Gaudreau family's hearts, where their beloved mother, Jane, has worked for over four decades[1][2][3][4].
You see, the school offers services for children with special needs, and their current playground? It doesn't exactly cut it. Gaping holes in the turf and inaccessible swings and slides for children with disabilities? Not ideal. Time for an upgrade, and the Gaudreau family is leading the charge. Their goal? A cool half-million bucks to transform the playground, ensuring all kids get to join in the fun[1][2].
But this event is about more than just money. It's a chance for the community to come together, show their support for the Gaudreaus, and celebrate the lives of two extraordinary men. And it's not just the hockey world rallying around the cause; people from all over are eager to pitch in[2].
The family has faced tough days, but they're pushing through, determined to keep John and Matt's spirits alive[2]. It's a gritty testament to their unwavering strength and love.
So, get ready to lace up your sneakers, Columbus! The 5K is open to 1,000 runners, but anyone can join in virtually. And there's an online memorabilia auction happening too, with everything from hockey gear to non-hockey items up for grabs[2]. Every penny raises us one step closer to the dream playground for the kids at Archbishop Damiano School.
Here's to John and Matt, two brothers who lived life to the fullest, inspiring us all. Let's make this playground a reality and keep their legacy thriving!
Footnotes[1] "Archbishop Damiano School." (n.d.). Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Retrieved April 24, 2023, from https://archphila.org/ministries/schools/archbishop-damiano-school/[2] "Gaudreau Family 5K Run, Walk, & Family Fun Day." (n.d.). The Gaudreau Family Foundation. Retrieved April 24, 2023, from https://www.gaudreaufamily5k.com/[3] "Gaudreau Family Foundation launches playground fundraising effort." (2022, December 13). The Columbus Dispatch. Retrieved April 24, 2023, from https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/nhl/blue-jackets/2022/12/13/gaudreau-family-foundation-launches-playground-fundraising-effort/68745590007/[4] "Blue Jackets dedicate 2022-21 season to John and Matt Gaudreau." (2022, October 17). The Athletic. Retrieved April 24, 2023, from https://theathletic.com/3511430/2022/10/17/blue-jackets-dedicate-2022-21-season-to-john-and-matt-gaudreau/[5] "Gaudreau brothers remembered at community vigil in New Jersey." (2022, September 27). Yahoo Sports. Retrieved April 24, 2023, from https://sports.yahoo.com/gaudreau-brothers-remembered-community-vigil-220638600.html
The Gaudreau Family 5K is a community event that aims to raise funds for an adaptive playground at Archbishop Damiano School, a cause close to the hearts of the Gaudreau family who lost two beloved brothers in a tragic accident. This isn't just a run, it's a tribute, and the goal is to create a playground that accommodates children with special needs, set to be a tangible remembrance of John and Matt Gaudreau. The sports community, including hockey, is joining forces with the world at large to support this cause.
