Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Sid the Kid is now Sid the Man

I received a Fed Ex package today that contained a gift that I have only dreamed about. I first read the letter from Brad Salmons (father of Ryan Salmons, who battled the same cancer I have) and it explained the process in obtaining the gift and such. I then unwrapped the package and was stoked to see a Sidney Crosby jersey! Not just any Sid the Kid jersey, but one signed by the rookie of the year himself. It says, "To Nick, keep fighting, Sidney Crosby 87". Its SWEET!!
So now I have a super rad jersey to wear to the Kings vs Penguins game this Thursday with the Raitt family. There might even be a chance of meeting some of the team!! Lets cross our fingers.
But I want to thank Brad again for the super awesome gift! It was truly one of the coolest things I have ever received. Crosby is my idol! ha
Anyways here are some pics:

Note from mom:

Brad Salmons and I have corresponded occasionally over the past several months as our sons had so much in common: both worked at Discount Tires, both played high school hockey, both diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma at age 18. I have mentioned Ryan in previous posts as he referred to Nick as his "twin in another city". Sadly, Ryan passed away May 1st, 2009 after a valiant effort. He built quite a legacy through his perseverance, attitude and spirit - affecting all those who knew him. Brad and Ryan began to bond with the players of the Columbus Blue Jackets, as the entire team embraced Ryan and his fight, "Refuse to lose!" Brad and Ryan's story can be found at: http://www.teamsalmons.com/.

Brad has continued to read Nick's blog and when he saw that Nick was going to see the Penguins, he called me to ask if it was ok to do something special for Nick's visit. He has become quite close friends with several of the NHL players and they are all willing to do anything possible to help out a fellow hockey kid in need of a boost. Brad's tender heart has begun to heal by his help of others and without embarrassing him, there are many young cancer survivors who are a little (a lot) better because of Brad's acts of kindness. God bless you, Brad, as Nick is one of them. You represent Ryan's memory and legacy with honor and grace. Thank you.

Lee commented that it would take surgery to wipe the grin off Nick's face, but I don't think even that would do it! He kept saying over and over with the jersey sitting on his lap, fingers running over the fabric, "This is the coolest gift I have EVER received, this is amazing, I can't believe it!" He spoke to Brad later this evening and I'm not sure if he was able to express his gratitude verbally to match how he felt internally.

Nick leaves tomorrow for California and I believe the motorhome will be a foot off the pavement the whole way there, Nick grinning all the way.

With love,

Lori

4 comments:

DJ said...

Hey Nick! The jersey looks great, have fun at the game!

I posted a link to your blog on my site: http://sidneycrosbyhockey.info/

Monkks said...

I love this latest post. Thanks for always thinking of us. We think of you, your family and of course Nick often. From a Red Wings fan this actually makes me think the world of Sid Crosby (believe this is tough).

Kevin McCulloch
Zach's Dad

Kaitlin said...

Nick,

Although I have not met you, I have followed your journey for the past few months and have kept you and your family in my prayers. I have been so touched by your story.

I hope you enjoy the Penguins/Kings game! I am a huge Washington Capitals fan and, naturally, love Alex Ovechkin. However, I will be cheering like crazy for the Penguins tonight knowing you are at the game. Enjoy!

Chris Ulvin said...

Dear Nick,
It was great to have you wearing your #87 Penguin Jersey at Thursday's Kings hockey game. After seeing all the other diehard Penguins fans in attendance at Staples Center, I bet you were glad Brad Salmons didn't send you a Penguins costume. Thank you Brad for your thoughtfullness. The jersey made the hockey event with my nephew memorable. And the fact that the Kings won 5 to 2 made the memory astonishing.
God bless all hockey fans - Brad and Nick especially.
Love, aunt Chris