Montreal Canadiens’ Brendan Gallagher shared a heartfelt moment with a fan on social media on Friday.
Lucie Lachance, a dedicated Montreal Canadiens supporter, reached out to Gallagher on X. She offered to give back his 2022 Hockey Fights Cancer warm-up jersey, a gesture of sympathy following the passing of his mother, Della.
On this special jersey, players could personalize it to show who they were fighting for in the battle against cancer. Gallagher had simply written ‘Mom’ at the bottom.
Deeply moved by Lachance’s thoughtful offer, Gallagher responded on X, saying, ‘This is incredibly kind of you, thoughtful and really appreciated!’ He then suggested exchanging jerseys on the ice on April 16, an invitation that Lachance happily accepted.
These unique warm-up jerseys are no longer a part of the NHL, making this gesture even more meaningful.
Gallagher publicly announced the passing of his mother on Thursday. He shared that she had bravely fought brain cancer for three and a half years, exceeding the initial prognosis of six to 18 months.
‘Throughout our lives, she consistently did so much for our family,’ Gallagher expressed to the media. ‘We try to hold onto the cherished memories we have.’
He further commented, ‘The team’s incredible support was essential in helping me cope, and I am immensely grateful. Everything I am is because of her, our bond was truly special. She will be deeply missed, but she remains with us every day, and I will always remember her.’
Tristan Blackwood