On August 30th, the hockey community received the tragic news that Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau had passed away after being struck by a drunk driver while riding their bikes in their hometown on the eve of their sister Katie's wedding.
Last week, Johnny and Meredith were to celebrate their third wedding anniversary. Heartbreakingly, Meredith could only post to social media to celebrate the occasion as the family continued to grieve the loss of Johnny and Matt.
Today, the family, along with friends and family gathered at a memorial ceremony to honour the brothers. Not only were friends and family present, but the Gaudreau family, in their time of mourning was gracious enough to allow the ceremony to be live-streamed for thousands of hockey fans across the world.
During Meredith's eulogy, she fought back tears as she thanked Sean Monahan and Kevin Hayes for helping turn Johnny into the man that she 'fell in love with' and shared how excited Johnny was when Monahan signed in Columbus this past off-season. She also announced that she is nine weeks pregnant with their third child - that Johnny will tragically never get to meet or watch grow up.
The strength that she and the entire family has shown during this time is nothing short of inspiring and our thoughts, condolences and prayers continue to be with them. May Johnny and Matt rest in peace.
POLL | ||
9 SEPTEMBRE | 308 ANSWERS Johnny Gaudreau's wife Meredith reveals heartbreaking surprise during his funeral Do you believe Johnny knew about the pregnancy before his passing? | ||
Yes | 122 | 39.6 % |
No | 43 | 14 % |
Doesn't matter either way. Totally heartbreaking. | 143 | 46.4 % |
List of polls |