“If you ask me about my husband, I’ll tell you that I love him.” Madeline Gaudreau‘s love for her husband, Matthew, is one that embodies endurance. It’s an emotion that never fades and ever lasts. Cupid struck them when they were teenagers. In their 15 years of association, they were man and wife for three. Their relationship was built on dreams of being together for a lifetime with mutual respect and hope. But alas, fate thought differently.

On August 29, 2024, Matthew was cycling with his elder brother, Johnny Gaudreau, when they were hit by a drunk driver. The ill-fated accident cost them their lives just a day before their sister’s wedding. What should have been a joyful celebration turned into unsurmountable sorrow for the Gaudreaus. Madeline was a few months along in her pregnancy with Matthew’s first child when tragedy struck. As a couple, they chose the name Tripp for their baby boy, a promise Madeline kept up after Matthew’s passing.

For Madeline, Tripp Gaudreau is a living piece of Matthew in the flesh. Time might mend scars, but would it be enough to fill the void of Matthew? To this day, she still reminisces on the beautiful years spent with her husband; his memories remain immortal within her. How do we know? Madeline occasionally shares snippets of her memories with Matthew. Recently, she took to Instagram to post a story. Her words are more than just statements; they describe the steadfast love she has for him.

“But if you ask me what he truly means to me … He is the one who knows me-every part of me. He has seen my best and my worst, yet his love has never wavered.” In the months that followed after Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau’s passing, the NHL, fellow players, the Boston University’s hockey team, and hockey fans have paid tribute to the legacy left behind by the brothers in a number of ways.

At the forefront of every one of these heartfelt displays were Madeline and Meredith Gaudreau. Even in the face of adversity, the Gaudreau women never cease in their efforts to keep up the legacies left behind by their soulmates.

Gaudreau Foundation empowers young athletes

​In the wake of the tragic loss of NHL players, Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, their widows, Meredith and Madeline, have channeled their profound grief into a mission to uplift others. Together, they co-founded the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, dedicated to empowering young athletes and expanding opportunities for aspiring hockey players. This initiative stands as a testament to the Gaudreau family’s enduring love for the sport and their commitment to nurturing its future talents.

Madeline’s devotion to honoring her late husband, Matthew, is evident in her active participation in commemorative events. A poignant example is the ceremony at Hollydell Ice Arena—a place where the Gaudreau brothers spent much of their youth—which was renamed ‘Gaudreau Rink‘ in their memory. During this heartfelt tribute, held prior to a junior hockey game, Madeline took part in the ceremonial puck drop, symbolizing her unwavering respect for Matthew and his passion for hockey. ​

Madeline’s resolute commitment to the foundation reflects the deep bond she shared with Matthew. She has often eloquently expressed, “He has healed wounds he never caused, simply by being who he is.” Embracing his legacy, she continues to support young hockey players through the foundation, honoring the integral role hockey played in their lives. Her heartfelt words, “He is my gift from above, my best friend, my safe place. And I will love him for a lifetime and beyond,” encapsulate the enduring nature of their love—a commitment that transcends time and presence.