Larry and Doreen Pettinger reading words of thanks from Braden and his Parents Rick and Dorothy.
Portage La Prairie, MB – The PCU Centre was busy last night with 700+ fans out to support Braden Pettinger and his family. The Terriers dedicated last night’s game to Braden with all proceeds from the 50/50 as well as the raffle they held and donations going towards Braden’s care.
We always say that Portage has the best fans in the MJHL and tonight it never felt more so. The line up to buy 50/50 and raffle tickets was overwhelming. There was also a Prayers for Petty banner on hand for everyone to sign and send their good wishes Braden’s way.
In the first intermission, the Pettinger family led by Braden’s Aunt and Uncle Larry and Doreen took to the ice to pass on a message from Braden and his parents.
Larry Pettinger spoke from the heart – “ Rick and Dorothy would love to be here with you tonight…Their focus at this time though remains on Braden and getting on with the next steps on his road to recovery.
They would like to let you know that every name on the go fund me page has been read and reread. The names they recognize and all of the others are etched in their minds, confirming that an unbelievable amount of compassion exists in this world.
They would also like you to know that 10 days in to this ordeal Braden has made progress. Tiny but promising changes that are giving us all hope for the future.
When I asked Rick and Dorothy what to say on their behalf tonight…I quote…we are running out of words to thank people for all that they have done. It’s kind of hard to actually concentrate in here ( hospital room ) but we will try and think of something to send…
Sometime later I received this reply in Braden’s words but texted by his Dad…I can’t believe the support that we have received from this community…many messages suggest once a Terrier always a Terrier regardless of the time spent here. I will hold that close in my heart forever.
From the coaching staff, bus drivers, ladies auxiliary, players, parents, support staff and fans, every one of them mean so much to all my family.
It would have been much more fun patting the Bowles brothers and team mates on the back after a goal rather than battling against them all night as I used to.
Thanks to everyone and someday…I am going to walk…back in to this building and thank each of you.”
There was a lot of emotion in the stands as everyone cheered and prays for that day.
Overall it was a successful evening. The Terriers with the support of our great fans raised $7,961.05 that will go directly in to Braden’s trust.
Shawn Bowles scored the game winner on a rebound from Brad Bowles with just 2 (Braden’s number) seconds left in the game, and Braden’s uncle Larry won the 50/50. What a night!!!
While this accident is very recent, we realize that the road ahead for the Pettinger family will be a long one. Available for sale next month we will have Playing for Petty rubber bracelets for $5 each with all proceeds going to Braden’s trust. If you or your team or organization would like to show support by purchasing bracelets, please contact Heather Jordan via email heather@portageterriers.com.
We will also be having another fundraiser on February 12th when we host the Waywayseecappo Wolverines, Braden’s former team.
Thanks again to everyone who has sent emails or texts, and called or visited with prayers and well wishes. All of these are being communicated to Braden’s family and they are grateful as is the Terrier family.