Tragedy strikes former NHL D-man P.K. Subban

PK Subban is no stranger to Montreal, having played for the Canadiens for seven seasons in the past, and still today he goes back for visits, especially to get involved with the Montreal Children’s Hospital. In September 2015, Subban and his foundation committed $10 million to the Montreal Children’s Hospital, the largest philanthropic commitment by a Canadian athlete. He was later traded to the Nashville Predators and ended his career with the New Jersey Devils, but Subban was always a huge part of the youngsters’ lives at the hospital, most notably Loic Bydal.

Unfortunately, Subban shared some heartbreaking news on Tuesday on X, formerly known as Twitter, revealing the tragic passing of Loic. The former defenseman, now TV analyst, wrote:

“We all have the potential to all be the light in someone’s life. Loic and I were the light in each other’s lives. That’s what I get to share with all the children I encounter. Loic will be missed but never forgotten for his smile, laugh, and larger than life energy.”

Loic was so inspiring to Subban and others as he graduated from high school back in 2021 despite significant health setbacks. Loic suffered from Morquio syndrome, a rare genetic condition affecting a child’s bones, spine, organs and physical abilities due to a lack of enzymes that break down sugar chains naturally in the body. After undergoing surgery in 2012, he lost the use of his legs and was a paraplegic on a permanent ventilator.

Subban has remained loyal to the pledge of helping the kids at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, and I am sure he will keep doing so in memory of his dear friend Loic.

Our thoughts go out to Subban, and especially the family and friends of Loic Bydal.

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