If you’re a Montreal Canadiens fan, you probably woke up this morning feeling pretty darn good.
The hockey gods just seem to be willing the scrappy Montreal Canadiens along through the entire postseason, and so far, it’s been one of the most magical Playoff runs in recent memory.
Their game against the Golden Knights last night was an overtime thriller that saw the Canadiens take a 2-1 series lead on home ice, but before the game, the team had to battle through more adversity. Their head coach, Dominque Ducharme, unfortunately tested positive for COVID ahead of the game.
It was just another hurdle for the Canadiens to battle through, and in Ducharme’s absence, assistant coach Luke Richardson stepped in as bench boss. Richardson is best known for his illustrious NHL career that spanned from 1988-2008 and for his equally impressive coaching pedigree, but to many in the hockey community, Richardson is best known for his work in mental health.
In November 2010, when she was only 14 years old, Luke’s daughter Daron Richardson died by suicide.
The family took their unfathomable pain and channeled it to transform youth mental health, and since then, ‘Do it For Daron’ has become a recognizable phrase in the hockey community. DIFD has become a movement that raises thousands of dollars each year that go towards youth mental health research and education.
Last night, when Luke got his first NHL win in thrilling fashion, a touching moment caught a lot of people’s eyes.
When the game winner lit the Bell Centre ablaze, Richardson touched the DIFD lapel pin he always wears and blew a kiss skywards.
What a moment.
Congrats to Luke and family on his first win as a head coach, and on their tireless work in mental health that we’re sure their daughter is proud of.
