Less than half a year ago the Columbus Blue Jackets lost their 31-year-old forward Johnny Gaudreau in a tragic road accident. The tragedy struck the Gaudreau family just three months before the NHL star’s 32nd birthday. However, today’s Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Chicago Blackhawks game bore witness to a rare moment where fans of both teams came together to celebrate the late forward’s son.
While Meredith Gaudreau never got to celebrate her husband’s 32nd birthday, she couldn’t have imagined how special her son’s birthday would become. “All right, Jackets fans, Blackhawks fans… Let’s join me in singing Happy Birthday to Johnny,” said the announcer informing the crowd that little Gaudreau Jr. turned one year old today.
Johnny Gaudreau struggled to hold her tears as the entire stadium sang ‘happy birthday’ in unison for Gaudreau Junior. The late Blue Jackets star’s son continued to make appearances on the jumbotron during the intermissions, attracting cheer each time. Sportsnet posted one such video reminding fans of the special tribute. “A special moment,” said the caster.
Blue Jackets fans sang Happy Birthday to Johnny Gaudreau Jr. during the TV timeout in Columbus.
Today is Baby Johnny's first birthday.
pic.twitter.com/IqXYFbyiyr
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 23, 2025
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