The hockey world is mourning early Friday, as one of its biggest fans is no longer with us.
Jonathan Pitre, a 17-year-old teenager from just outside of Ottawa, in Russell, Canada, died Wednesday evening in a Minnesota hospital. Pitre had epidermolysis bullosa (EB), one of the most painful diseases in medicine.
If you were looking for inspiration, Pitre helped you find it. During his life, Pitre dealt with delicate skin that would tear and easily blister. He spent the majority of his life undergoing treatments and surgeries, but the Senators and TSN crew always brought a smile to his face – and vice versa.
Pitre became the face of EB, informing the world of what dealing with the disease was like. Known as the “Butterfly Child,” Pitre had a special relationship with his hometown hockey team. As Pitre fought off the ice, the Senators fought on the ice. It was a kinship brought together by perseverance.
TSN also had a special bond with Pitre. Pitre wanted to become a sportscaster and the company, specifically, James Duthie, made it happen. Pitre joined the panel for a night and was allowed to live his dreams. Duthie wrote an emotional message on Instagram after hearing the news from Jonathan’s mother, Tina Boileau.
We know of incredible stories on the ice, but the fans in the stands also have some remarkable stories as well. It’s a tragic loss for the Pitre family, the community of Ottawa and the Senators. Our condolences are with Tina.
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