This weekend I have experienced a whirlwind of emotions after hearing about the Humboldt Broncos. I may not have connections to the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League or even to Humboldt, but my heart hurts for the families and friends of those involved in this tragedy.
As we continue to process the news that comes, I thought I would share some beautiful moments that have shown through this darkness. First being Ryan “Straz” Straschnitzki. The 18-year-old defenceman from Airdrie, is recovering from a 7 hour surgery. The results of the crash left Straz with a broken back, that has caused paralysis from the chest down.
I think it would be fair to say an tragedy such as this would impact anyone mentally and physically, but Straz refuses to give up on his hockey dreams. In a statement from his family, Tom Straschnitzki said:
“He keeps wanting to try and move his legs, of course, because he wants to go back skating. He just looked at me and his mother and he goes, ‘Well, I’m gonna get onto the Olympic sledge hockey team.'”
We may not agree on Politics. But we sure do agree on Support. sure am proud our Prime Minister and his son showing up and chatting hockey. Thank you very much. pic.twitter.com/czD3BXhPTJ
— Strazsr (@strazsr) April 8, 2018
The second moment that stood out to me, is not about one person, but about a nation. Two days ago, a GoFundMe page was set up for the players and families affected effected by the accident. In those two days, there have been over 60,000 donations. The compassion of the donors not only helped to meet the initial goal, but passed it. Currently, the funds raised are sitting at 5.5 million dollars (11:20 AM on Monday, April 9, 2018).
You can still help through the GoFundMe page, click here to donate!