SEWELL, N.J. — In a heartwarming display of community support, thousands gathered at Washington Lake Park for the inaugural Gaudreau Family 5K Walk/Run and Family Day, honoring brothers John and Matthew Gaudreau who tragically lost their lives in a bicycle accident just days before their sister Katie's wedding. The event was aimed at celebrating their legacy while also raising funds for an accessible playground at Archbishop Damiano School, a cause that was close to their hearts.
Jane Gaudreau, the boys' mother, found solace in a double rainbow shortly after their deaths. Seeking more signs from her sons, she asked for divine intervention to clear potential stormy weather for the event. Miraculously, a rainbow appeared the morning of the walk/run, bringing her comfort and hope. "I was so relieved," Jane expressed, feeling it was a sign from her sons.
The event attracted an impressive turnout, with approximately 1,100 participants physically present and over 1,300 joining virtually from locations such as the U.S., Canada, Ireland, and Sweden. Notable NHL players, including Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk, showed their support, highlighting the familial bonds and friendships within the hockey community. Tkachuk remarked on the love and admiration everyone had for Johnny and Matty, emphasizing the event's significance as a representation of their enduring legacy.
John and Matthew had championed the accessible playground initiative in honor of their grandmother Marie, who worked at the school for 44 years before her passing in 2023. Following their deaths, Jane took on the project as a way to channel her grief into a positive endeavor. Family friend Deb Vasutoro, who conceptualized the 5K event, remarked that this initiative was not only about remembrance but also about bringing joy to children with disabilities, aligning with the values the brothers held dear.
The Rev. Allain Caparas, from Gloucester Catholic High School, where the Gaudreau brothers honed their hockey skills, noted that the efforts to raise funds for the playground were an extension of the positive impact the brothers had on their community. He stated, "Johnny and Matthew lived their lives with purpose, and now we’re celebrating that."
Social media buzzed with mentions of the event from people connected to the Gaudreau family, further increasing participation and donations. Paul O'Connor, a close family friend, noted the overwhelming response from the community, highlighting how people were eager to contribute, even from afar, showing solidarity for the cause.
As Jane and Guy Gaudreau addressed the crowd, tears filled their eyes. Guy expressed heartfelt gratitude for the community's support, stating, "We miss the boys, and it really means a lot for us to have you here to honor my boys. Thank you." The event created a strong sense of unity, with participants sporting gear related to hockey and honoring the memory of the brothers.
Looking to the future, organizers aim to make the Gaudreau Family 5K an annual event, potentially expanding to include locations in Calgary and Columbus. Jane shared her enthusiasm for continuing the initiative, believing it can grow and improve each year as more people come together to celebrate the lives and legacies of John and Matthew Gaudreau.
