Fundraiser for Matthew Gaudreau’s widow surpasses $560K after tragic accident
In the aftermath of the tragic deaths of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, the hockey community has come together to support Matthew’s pregnant widow, Madeline.
A GoFundMe campaign, organized by Madeline’s sister, has raised over $560,000 as of Tuesday evening, far exceeding the initial goal of $30,000. The funds will help support Madeline, who is expecting the couple’s first child in December.
The fundraiser has seen overwhelming support from over 7,800 donors, including significant contributions from current and former NHL players, their families, and teams. Notable donations include $10,000 from Cliff Rucker, owner of the ECHL’s Worcester Railers HC, where Matthew played for two seasons, and $3,000 from the family of New York Rangers forward Artemi Panarin.
Hockey community mourns the loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau
The tragic loss of the Gaudreau brothers has deeply affected the hockey world. Johnny Gaudreau, an NHL star, and his brother Matthew were struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding their bikes in New Jersey last week. Their untimely deaths have led to an outpouring of tributes from players, fans, and teams across the league.
Jaromir Jagr, who played alongside Johnny Gaudreau with the Calgary Flames, shared a poignant tribute on social media.
He remembered Johnny for assisting on his final NHL goal and expressed his sorrow over the loss. "Unfortunately, life can be unbelievably cruel. Thank you, Johnny, for your incredible performances that gave hope to so many. My sincere condolences to your family. R.I.P. to you and your brother," Jagr wrote.
Candlelight vigil planned to honor the Gaudreau brothers
In addition to the online tributes, the Columbus Blue Jackets announced a candlelight vigil to be held Wednesday night outside Nationwide Arena. The vigil will include brief remarks from members of the organization and a 13-minute, 21-second period of silent remembrance, reflecting the jersey numbers worn by Johnny and Matthew.
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The Gaudreau family has expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received. "We are greatly comforted by all those who have visited these growing memorials and who have left messages of love, prayers, thoughts of kindness, and tokens of remembrance," wrote Jim Gaudreau, the brothers’ uncle, on Facebook.