Community Comes Together for Gaudreau Family 5K
A tragic event has united a community, drawing thousands to the inaugural Gaudreau Family 5K Walk/Run and Family Day in southern New Jersey, held in remembrance of brothers John and Matthew Gaudreau, who passed away recently in a cycling accident. The event took place at Washington Lake Park, a cherished place from their childhood, and aimed to raise funds for the construction of an accessible playground at Archbishop Damiano School, a cause championed by the brothers in honor of their late grandmother.
Signs of Hope and Community Support
On the day of the event, following a period of inclement weather, a rainbow appeared just before the festivities began, which Jane Gaudreau, the boys’ mother, interpreted as a sign from her sons. After a tornado watch the night before, the appearance of the rainbow provided her with reassurance and a connection to her children. The gathering attracted around 1,100 participants physically, with an additional 1,300 engaging virtually from places like Canada and even as far as Ireland and Sweden.
A Tribute to Legacy and Purpose
Fans and supporters, including NHL players such as Brady Tkachuk, highlighted the strong bonds the Gaudreau family held within the community.
“It speaks to them as a family, how close they were and how everybody loved being around them,”
Tkachuk remarked, noting the extensive support shown from the community and even fellow players who traveled to honor the siblings.
The 5K event not only served to honor the legacy of “Johnny Hockey” and his younger brother Matthew but also aimed to raise money for an accessible playground that had been a long-time project lacking sufficient funding. Jane, who works with children with disabilities, saw the playground’s construction as a purpose after her sons’ deaths.
“It was the perfect marriage of doing something good to honor the boys and seeing children laugh and smile,”
said family friend Deb Vasutoro.
The Rev. Allain Caparas from Gloucester Catholic High School, where the brothers played hockey, spoke on how the community continues to feel their impact through initiatives like the playground.
“They lived their lives with purpose, and now we’re celebrating that,”
he stated.
Looking Forward
As the event unfolded, tears were evident in the eyes of Jane and Guy Gaudreau, who spoke briefly to thank attendees for their support, emphasizing how meaningful this acknowledgment was for their family. The palpable community spirit was evident as participants donned hockey gear and shared in the collective remembrance.
The Gaudreau family hopes to make the event an annual gathering, potentially expanding its reach to Calgary and Columbus to continue honoring the brothers’ legacy. Jane expressed enthusiasm about the future of the event, expecting it to evolve and grow with each passing year, reaffirming a lasting tribute to her sons.
