Brendan Gallagher’s Emotional Journey: A Jersey Tribute to His Late Mother

Montreal Canadiens forward Brendan Gallagher has long been a symbol of resilience and dedication, both on and off the ice. His personal battle with loss and his tribute to his late mother, Della Gallagher, have touched the hearts of hockey fans worldwide. In a heartwarming gesture, Gallagher recently reconnected with a fan over a jersey that holds profound personal significance.

A Jersey with a Message

In 2022, during the NHL's Hockey Fights Cancer initiative, Gallagher wore a purple Canadiens sweater during warmups. The jersey featured a heartfelt patch message: "I Fight For Mom." This was a tribute to his mother, who had been battling Stage 4 brain cancer since her diagnosis in August 2021. Despite being given six to 18 months to live, Della Gallagher fought courageously for 3½ years before passing away on March 8, 2025.

A Fan’s Generous Gesture

The jersey was auctioned off in 2022 to benefit the Canadiens' Children's Foundation and was won by Lucie Lachance, a devoted Canadiens fan. After learning of Della’s passing, Lachance felt compelled to return the jersey to Gallagher. "I looked at the sweater and I said to myself that it no longer belonged to me, that it belonged to him," Lachance shared in an interview with TVA Sports.

Lachance reached out to Gallagher via social media, offering to return the jersey. Gallagher, deeply moved by her kindness, accepted and proposed a jersey swap during the Canadiens’ final home game of the season against the Carolina Hurricanes on April 16.

A Tribute on the Ice

The Canadiens organization supported this emotional exchange by providing Lachance with two tickets to the game. Gallagher expressed his gratitude, stating, "That is incredibly kind of you, thoughtful and really appreciated!"

Gallagher’s connection to the jersey and the memory of his mother transcends hockey. After scoring his first goal since her passing in a victory over the Ottawa Senators, Gallagher tapped his chest and looked skyward in tribute. "It kind of hit me right away. I wasn't going to be able to call her or talk to her about it," he shared.

A Legacy of Strength

Gallagher continues to honor his mother’s legacy, both through his play on the ice and in his personal life. His newborn daughter’s middle names pay homage to both her grandmothers, ensuring their memory lives on. "Everything I am, is from her. It's a special relationship. She will be missed, but she's with us every day," Gallagher said.

This story is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and the enduring bond between a player and his fans. Gallagher’s journey reminds us that hockey is more than a game—it’s a platform for healing, connection, and honoring those we love.