Episode 19: Comforting Columbus

How is it that someone we have never personally met before can grow to have such an impact in our lives and our communities? That question is the base on which so many sporting legends have built upon in the last 100+ years of professional sports. It’s incredible not just in sports, but in life, to see the actions of one individual uplift those around them. It’s equally as horrifying to see how the actions of one individual can tear down a community overnight.

Since August 29th, we’ve seen both sides to that story; how Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau lit up a room wherever they were, how they made every fan feel like they were one of one whenever they met, and how they’ve made their communities shine just by playing a game they loved. We’ve also seen deep pain, heartbreak, and steely courage in those that Johnny and Matt left behind. 

In the wake of everything that has happened, I wanted to understand how those same fans that rooted for the Gadreaus are now trying to make sense of this tragedy and help their community heal from such an event. Especially now, as the Blue Jackets have had to mark somber milestones through this season, with their latest being a home/home with the Calgary Flames, Johnny’s old team. While these fans may have not personally known Johnny and Matthew Gadreau, they’re trying their best to honor the memory of someone who they considered as one of their own.