Canes deliver teddies to CRH pediatric ward

By Toyin Obatusin - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on December 10, 2024.

The Lethbridge Hurricanes made a special delivery of stuffed animals to the pediatric ward on Monday morning at Chinook Regional Hospital.
Teddy bear goal scorer Leo Braillard was joined by teammates Noah Chadwick, Brayden Edwards, Hayden Pakkala, and Logan Mccutcheon.
“It’s really nice to score this goal. Give some teddy bears to the kids, it’s very nice too,” said Braillard.
The team says 4,207 teddy bears and 1,085 toques were collected for players to present to patients at the pediatric ward, along with other local agencies such as the Blood Tribe Police Service and Lethbridge Family Services.
“The teddy bears are immensely helpful,” said Brandi Gaudet, child life pediatrics specialist. “Because people, when they come to the hospital they’re not always prepared. So kids and families are rushed here, they don’t know that they’re showing up. It’s always so amazing for our nurses to be able to give kids a comfort item, something to make them feel a little bit more at home.”
Carter Struthers was the first patient to receive one of these bears. The Grade 11 student, who also plays hockey, was injured in a recent game and was awaiting surgery for a broken ankle
“I got hit and my skate caught on the ice” said Struthers.
His dad, Jason Struthers, explained that what was first a sprain, became an injury that meant no contact sports for four months.
Monday was Hurricane Noah Chadwicks’ second annual delivery. He led his teammates with an open discussion of the sentimental value this event has had on him and his team.
“We have the teddy toss game as a team and I think it’s more personal coming from the players and it means a lot to us to come out,” said Chadwick.
“It means a lot. It’s nice that there’s not too many kids in here. It just means a lot to us as players to be able to come out here and give to the sick kids, especially in a position of privilege is equally as important for the team lead and us to be able to do this, said Chadwick, “I remember being that age, definitely looking up to WHL players, so I guess I know the feeling, being able to give back is kind of a full circle moment. It means a lot to us.”

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