NHL player Brad Marchand surprised attendees at a Halifax U18 hockey game by stepping in to support a close friend who recently lost his daughter. The head coach of the March and Mill Company Hunters, JP MacCallum, is currently on leave following the passing of his 10-year-old daughter, Selah Panacci-MacCallum, after a battle with cancer. Despite being in the midst of the NHL season with the Florida Panthers, Marchand felt compelled to return home and assist MacCallum on the sidelines.
Expressing his sorrow, Marchand described Selah as a remarkable girl who brought immense love and joy to those around her. Her passing on Friday marked the end of a long battle, during which she displayed remarkable strength and resilience. Marchand highlighted Selah’s impact on his own life, his family, and the profound love they all shared for her.
Over a thousand individuals gathered at the Halifax Forum to offer their support to the grieving family. Marchand emphasized his enduring friendship with JP, spanning 25 years, acknowledging MacCallum’s pivotal role in his life and expressing gratitude for his unwavering presence during significant life events.
Acknowledging the support from the Florida Panthers, Marchand revealed that they encouraged him to return home and return when ready. The hockey game served as a fundraiser, with proceeds from activities like a bake sale and a 50-50 draw being directed to Selah’s family, in addition to a jersey auction.
The president of the U18 Major Hockey League, Paul Graham, commended the outpouring of support for Selah’s family, underscoring the tight-knit nature of the Nova Scotia hockey community. Graham praised Marchand’s immediate response to stand by MacCallum during this challenging time, highlighting the forward’s deep-rooted connection to his hometown and the individuals who have shaped his journey.
The gesture by Marchand, a prominent figure within the team and an alumni of the league, was a testament to his respect for his community and the individuals who have been instrumental in his life. The community’s united front in times of need was characterized as a defining trait of Nova Scotia hockey players and alumni.