Meredith Gaudreau, the widow of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau, revealed during his memorial service on Monday that she is expecting their third child. She shared that she is currently nine weeks pregnant.
Tragic Loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau
Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew, 29, tragically lost their lives due to a car accident involving an alleged drunk driver on August 29 while they were cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey.
Celebrating Their Family
The couple already had two children: Noa, who will turn 2 in October, and Johnny, who is just 7 months old. At the memorial, Meredith expressed her gratitude for their time as a family, stating, “John and I had the best six months as a family of four. These will forever be the best six months of my life.” She emphasized the joy of expecting another child, calling it a “total surprise” for them.
A Shared Journey of Parenthood
Reflecting on their short marriage, Meredith noted, “In less than three years of marriage, we’ve created a family of five. It doesn’t even sound possible, but I look at it as the ultimate blessing.” She described her late husband’s excitement upon hearing the news, highlighting the deep bond they shared.
Community Support for the Families
Matthew Gaudreau’s widow, Madeline, is also expecting their first child, a boy named Tripp. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to support Madeline and her child, raising nearly $650,000 as of Monday.
Memorial Service Honoring Their Legacy
During the memorial service held at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Media, Pennsylvania, both Meredith and Madeline spoke about their husbands. Attendees included family, friends, and NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. Meredith reflected on the close relationship between the brothers, saying, “I know John would not have been able to live a day without his brother.”
A Call to Action Against Drunk Driving
Madeline also used her time to advocate against drunk driving, urging attendees to find alternative transportation. This plea comes in light of the tragic circumstances surrounding their husbands’ deaths, which occurred while the brothers were in town for their sister’s wedding, now postponed.
The community continues to rally around both families, offering support during this incredibly difficult time.