If you are a regular reader, you must know by now that I'm always on the lookout for a new hero.
A few years ago, Terry and I attended the lavish party for a friend who was turning 70. A video tribute played neared the end of the formal meal which featured the Toronto Maple Leafs' William Nylander wishing the honoree a Happy Birthday. Apparently he was visiting a hospital when Wai Chin's daughters asked him to take a minute to pass along his best wishes to their mother.
Fast forward to yesterday.
As I was gowning up to do a bedside visit for a young boy at Holland Bloorview, I couldn't help but notice he was wearing a Maple Leaf jersey with number 88 on each sleeve.
"Is that a new sweater?" I asked.
The lad nodded his head, a big smile on his face.
His mother explained that William Nylander had just visited the previous day and had given her son the jersey. Apparently they were old friends having first met when Nylander visited the lad at Sick Kids a few months ago.
"William said they're besties now," the mother continued, beaming as she spoke. "He even gave us his cell number saying that as soon as John ( not his real name ) is up to it, he can come down to the arena for a tour of the dressing room followed by taking in a game from William's private seats."
I think John's mom was as excited as her son.
Well done, William! Your ongoing commitment to these often forgotten kids is incredible.
You will always be a first star in my book.
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